CHICAGO, IL – Suffering a personal injury can be a life-altering event that can impact your emotional state, physical well-being and financial stability. If you find yourself in such a situation, hiring a personal injury lawyer can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. This week’s blog will explore the key questions you should pose before hiring a personal injury attorney.
How much experience do you have in personal injury law?
Experience matters when it comes to personal injury cases. You should ask the lawyer’s background focusing specifically on their experience with cases that are similar to yours. Ask questions about the settlements they’ve achieved and their familiarity with the legal processes involved. A skilled personal injury lawyer will have the expertise, knowledge and resources to navigate your case effectively.
Do you have trial experience with personal injury cases similar to mine?
While most cases are settled out of court, it’s important for your attorney to be prepared for the possibility of going to trial. Ask about their trial experience in handling personal injury cases similar to yours so they can provide you with confidence and assurance that they’re able to effectively represent your case in court, if necessary.
How do you charge for your services?
Understanding the attorney’s fee structure is important for avoiding any surprises later on. Most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only receive a payment if they win your case; however, it’s important to clarify the percentage they will take from your settlement or award, as well as any additional costs or expenses that will be deducted during the legal process.
What is your approach to settlement negotiations and trial?
Most personal injury cases are settled outside of our and will require litigation. You should ask your attorney what their approach to settlement negotiations is and their experience in the courtroom. You want to hire an attorney who is skilled in both negotiation and litigation and who can adapt to the unique circumstances of your case to get you the best possible outcome.
Will you be the primary lawyer handling my case?
Some law firms may assign your case to a paralegal or junior associate. These professionals are capable; however, it’s important to ensure the lawyer you hire will be directly involved in your case and provide guidance. Establishing a clear line of communication and trust with your attorney is crucial for a successful attorney-client relationship.
How will you communicate with me throughout the litigation process?
When working with a personal injury lawyer, open and regular communication regarding your case is vital. Ask about how the attorney plans to keep you informed about the progress of your case, when they are available for phone calls or meetings and if they will provide updates via email or another communication platform. Understanding how your lawyer will communicate will help you feel more confident and involved in your case.
How do you assess the value of my claim?
Evaluating various factors will determine the value of your personal injury claim, including pain and suffering, medical expenses, lost wages and long-term damages. Ask the attorney about their approach of assessing your claim and their experience in negotiating for fair compensation.
How long do you anticipate my case will take?
It may be challenging to provide an exact timeframe, but an experienced personal injury lawyer should be able to provide an estimated timeline based on their knowledge of similar cases.
Can you provide testimonials or references from past clients?
Requesting testimonials or references from previous clients can give you insight into the lawyer’s quality of service and track record. Hearing first-hand previous clients’ experiences can help you gauge their level of satisfaction and the attorney’s ability to handle personal injury cases effectively.
Contacting a personal injury lawyer in Chicago, Illinois
Hiring the right personal injury lawyer in Illinois is a crucial decision that can significantly impact the outcome of your case. By asking these essential questions, you can gain a better understanding of the lawyer’s experience, approach, and communication style.
Our trusted team of personal injury lawyers at the Dinizulu Law Group go above and beyond and is a highly respected firm located in Illinois. Let us handle your concerns and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Contact us online or call (312) 384-1920 for a free consultation today!
