If you are injured in an automotive collision or other accident, you may be entitled to financial compensation. People file over 400,000 personal injury cases each year but ensuring you get the settlement you deserve depends on finding the right personal injury lawyer.
Read on to learn what you should look for in an attorney. You’ll learn what to ask a lawyer and find the personal injury attorney that’s perfect for your case.
1. Ask a Personal Injury Lawyer About Their Fees
One of the first lawyer questions you should ask when hiring an attorney is how their fees are structured. Many personal injury lawyers work on a contingency basis. That means you pay the attorney only if they win a court case or an out-of-court settlement on your behalf.
If you win the case and you’re awarded money, your attorney will receive between 25% and 40% on average. Make sure you understand the fees before you retain a lawyer.
2. Are They Experienced With Your Type of Case?
Attorneys have different levels of experience with different types of cases. If your case involves an auto accident, you should find a lawyer with expertise in this area. A lawyer who has only worked on workers’ compensation cases may not have the experience you need.
Look for an attorney with deep experience in a wide range of personal injury cases. The knowledge they gain from different situations can help them as they work your case.
3. How Long Will the Case Take to Win or Settle?
If you need financial assistance from a court settlement award, it’s essential to know how long it will take to resolve your case. A personal injury lawsuit may take one or two years. Many different things will affect the timeline of your case, but an attorney should be able to give you an estimate.
4. What Kind of Settlement or Award Will I Receive
If you are suffering from pain or injury, or if you expect to need medical assistance for a long time, it’s essential to know how much money you might receive from your case. Do your research to see how much cases like yours are worth and confirm with your attorney.
5. What Are My Chances of Winning?
Depending on the type of case you are filing and the experience level of your attorney, you may have an excellent chance of winning. Before you invest your time, find out your prospects. Attorneys who try cases like yours will advise you whether it is a good idea to take the case to court.
6. Can You Give Me Some References?
Don’t be shy about asking an attorney for references from previous clients. An experienced lawyer should have a list of satisfied clients with the work they performed and the financial award they received from the case. Even if the attorney has a website with lots of testimonials, take the time to get some references and contact the former clients yourself.
Get the Legal Help You Deserve
If you are injured in an accident and want to explore your legal options, it’s important to consult a personal injury lawyer. They will advise you of your rights and help you prepare a case against the other party. To make sure you find the right attorney, go into your first meeting with lots of questions, so you’re comfortable they are the right fit.
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