Personal Injury Lawyer Consultation Questions
The right questions during your consultation will help you evaluate attorneys and make an informed decision. Use this comprehensive guide to prepare for productive meetings.
Consultation Strategy
Treat consultations like job interviews - you're hiring them to represent your interests. Ask detailed questions about experience, strategy, and fees to make the best choice for your case.
Experience & Qualifications
Critical Questions•
How long have you been practicing personal injury law?
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What percentage of your practice is personal injury?
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How many cases like mine have you handled in the past year?
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Are you board certified in personal injury or trial advocacy?
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What is your track record with cases similar to mine?
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Have you handled cases against this defendant/insurance company before?
Case Strategy & Approach
Critical Questions•
What is your initial assessment of my case?
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What do you think my case is worth?
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What are the strengths and weaknesses of my case?
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How will you investigate and build my case?
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What experts might you need to consult?
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How long do you expect my case to take?
Trial Experience & Willingness
Critical Questions•
How many personal injury cases have you taken to trial?
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When was your last jury trial?
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What is your trial win rate?
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Are you willing to take my case to trial if necessary?
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How do you decide whether to settle or go to trial?
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Have you tried cases in the court where mine would be filed?
Fee Structure & Costs
Critical Questions•
Do you work on contingency, and what is your percentage?
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Does your fee change if the case goes to trial?
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Who pays for case expenses during litigation?
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What happens to expenses if we lose the case?
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Are there any upfront costs I need to pay?
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Can you provide a written fee agreement?
Communication & Case Management
High Questions•
Who will be the primary attorney on my case?
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Will you personally handle my case or delegate to associates?
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How often will you update me on my case progress?
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What is the best way to contact you?
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How quickly do you typically respond to client calls/emails?
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How many other cases are you currently handling?
Resources & Support
High Questions•
What resources will you invest in my case?
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Do you have investigators on staff or do you hire them?
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How do you handle medical records and expert testimony?
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What support staff will work on my case?
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Do you have the financial resources to fund litigation?
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How do you handle complex medical or technical issues?
Remember: You're in Control
Free consultations are designed to help you evaluate attorneys, not for attorneys to pressure you into hiring them. Take your time, ask all your questions, and don't sign anything during the first meeting unless you're completely confident in your choice.
Make Informed Attorney Decisions
Use these questions to thoroughly evaluate personal injury attorneys and choose the best legal representation for your specific case and needs.
