What Should You Ask A Personal Injury Attorney Before You Hire Them?
When you’ve been injured in an accident, you need to hire a personal injury attorney to protect yourself. When deciding who to hire, there are many questions that may come to mind. It’s important to take the time and write down every single question you may have, but let’s talk about four most important questions you want to ask any attorney before hiring them to represent you.
1. What Is Your Area Of Legal Expertise? Is It In Personal Injury Cases?
Although the importance of this question seems obvious, not all attorneys specialize or have extensive experience in personal injury claims. If you have been referred to a lawyer from a family member or friend, it’s necessary to verify this before proceeding further so you do not waste your time. Depending on your situation, it’s important to decide if the representation you’ve chosen has the legal expertise to successfully fight for you.
Look for attorneys that only represent victims in personal injury, auto accidents, and wrongful death claims. Be sure that all attorneys are active members in good standing of the Florida Bar Association.
2. Have You Handled A Personal Injury Case Like Mine Before?
After you establish that your attorney has legal expertise in personal injury cases, it’s time to dive deeper into the specifics of your case to determine if your representation has navigated this minefield before. Remember that court cases are a battle. A simple misstep from an inexperienced professional can cost you big. You want someone who will not only protect your well being, but has an extensive track record of success in navigating clients through the battlefield.
If possible, look for a firm that is highly experienced with years of cumulative experience, and hundreds of cases under their belt. Your attorney should know how to navigate the minefield of doctors, defense attorneys, and bully insurance companies.Further and most important, they should have a proven track record of successfully winning large amounts of money for clients.
3. How Long Does It Typically Take To Resolve A Personal Injury Case Like Mine?
Depending on the fee structure that is agreed upon during your free consultation, the typical amount of time it takes to resolve your case may be helpful in budgeting your overall initial cost vs payout. It’s also important to understand that this time-frame may be different depending on a law firm’s tactical approach to cases.
Most injury attorneys will try to settle out of court, however you will want to make sure that if needed your attorney will fight for a fair settlement all the way to the courts. Your attorney should also provide you the tools and resources to feel comfortable and at ease during this seemingly stressful time. If we do go to court, the time to close your case may potentially be longer, but the payout will also be greater in the end.
4. Can I Get References From Past Clients Who Have Worked With You?
“The proof is in the pudding” so to speak. If a law office is willing to provide references for past work, their willingness alone is a good indication of a successful firm. Walk away from any firm that is unwilling to provide you with names of individuals who have offered to be the positive references for them. If the attorney does not have references for cases that are similar to yours specifically, make sure to get references from past clients anyway and ask them about their overall experience with the firm. You can always ask for specific examples of cases related to yours, but references from those that have fought and won this battle will go a long way in determining the best fit for you.
At Goldman, Babboni, Fernandez & Walsh, we’re here to answer all of your questions about your personal injury case. We strive to make all of our clients comfortable through the legal process. Call us today to set up your free consultation and learn more about how we can fight for you!
About the Author
Injured In Sarasota? Get Your Free Case Review
