If you’ve been injured in an accident or on the job it can feel like a part of your life has been taken away, especially if you were injured due to someone else’s error or negligence. Hiring a lawyer is the first step to receiving compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, and lost time, but it’s important to make sure you hire the right person—after all, you’re entrusting that person with your best interests. Here are some questions to ask your personal injury lawyer to ensure that you are on the same page before you get started with your case.
Would a contingency fee be possible?
Financial concerns are the main reason many people don’t choose to file personal injury claims, so you need to make sure you can afford it. Many personal injury lawyers operate on a contingent basis, meaning they receive no fees unless their clients are awarded damages. Finding out whether your lawyer receives contingency fees will save you a lot of time and headaches. Often these fees are negotiable, as well.
Do you have time to work on my case?
Ensuring that your lawyer is not overwhelmed with other casework will ensure a speedy turnaround for your case. A personal injury lawyer with many clients is more likely to let your case stagnate, so make sure you find someone willing to go to bat for you as soon as possible.
Will my case go to trial?
If you would like to see your case go to trial, make sure your attorney is not going to take the first settlement offered, and don’t go to trial if you don’t want to. It’s up to you to control the parameters of your case, so make sure your personal injury lawyer is on the same page in terms of settlement vs. trial. If you do decide to pursue a trial, it’s very important to establish a timeframe.
How much is my case worth?
Ask your potential attorney if they have handled cases like yours in the past. They should have a ballpark estimate of how much compensation you can expect from a personal injury lawsuit and be able to offer some insight on the benefits of out of court settlement vs. going to trial.
Who is handling my case?
Make sure the person you’re meeting with is actually the attorney who will be personally handling your case. Filing a personal injury lawsuit is a major step, and a lot depends on the lawyer you choose. It’s important to feel comfortable with your personal injury lawyer.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a motor vehicle or other type of accident and you would like to seek compensation, contact the experts at Antin, Ehrlich & Epstein today for a free consultation. A personal injury is a traumatic event, but you should be aware of your options. Don’t be a victim—take your power back by contacting AEE Law today at 917-730-7151.