Questions you should ask!
Choosing the right attorney for your case will have a massive impact on whether you get all of the money you are owed. When interviewing attorneys, you need to be able to differentiate those who are ready to take your case (and take it to trial if necessary) versus those who are looking for a quick settlement that may not be in your best interests.
We want to help you find the right attorney for your case, even if that is not us. When you’re ready to talk to our attorney, here are the questions you should ask us (you will be pleasantly surprised by the answer you receive):
Do you have a concentration in a practice area relevant to my case?
How many years have you been practicing in your concentration?
How many cases in the past 5 years are dedicated to your concentration?
What are some notable results you’ve achieved in your practice area?
How many cases in the past 5 years have you represented injured individuals?
What percentage of your current cases are referrals from other attorneys?
How heavy is your current caseload, and do you have enough time to take my case?
What is your plan for my case?
What issues or problems do you foresee in my case?
Who else will be working on my case (both attorneys and non-attorneys)?
After a settlement or judgment has been reached, will you provide assistance in resolving any liens on my recovery by medical service providers, insurers, or others?
What responsibilities will I have in the course of representation?
What are my options as far as insurance claims versus filing a lawsuit?
Do you have any history of discipline or censure with the state bar association, ethics committee, or other legal organization?
What is the best way to reach you?
In addition to the above questions which give you a general impression of whether the attorney is a good match for you, it is important to understand the attorney’s fee arrangement with you. Ask the following questions:
What fee arrangement structure do you offer?
Who pays expert witness fees?
What other out-of-pocket expenses do you anticipate?
Can your firm financially afford to “carry” the case if necessary to go to trial and wait for payment on a judgment?
Whew! That’s quite the list, but when it comes to choosing the right attorney, it’s important that you feel comfortable and confident working with the lawyer of your choice.
While some lawyers fear this list of questions, we welcome it!
That’s why we’ve been honored with lists such as Super Lawyers Top Verdicts & Settlements and Super Lawyers/ Risings Star Super Lawyers for more than 5 consecutive years.
Give us a call at 803-222-2222 and ask us anything about your case. We’re eager to help.
