If you have been injured in a car accident, suffered from poor medical care, or were bitten by a dog, you might be searching for a personal injury attorney. This specialized legal professional is equipped to handle a variety of cases in which the victim was harmed by another person’s mistake. Many individuals assume that the seeming aggravation of working with an attorney and dealing with legal paperwork is not worth the payout. However, a personal injury attorney chooses to take on your case with the belief that you can win. On average, those who hire a personal injury attorney receive a larger payout than those who settle with the insurance company independently.
If you are considering hiring a personal injury attorney, there is no risk in contacting a few professionals for an evaluation. Most do not charge a consultation fee, but be sure to inquire before your meeting. The law firm will assess your case and consider the evidence. You have the opportunity to ask questions and get to know the attorney’s style. If the firm chooses to take on your case, you will receive a contract that explains what is provided by the attorney, the associated fees and what is expected from you. Before you sign the agreement, be sure to ask these key questions:
1. What Experience Does the Attorney Have?
Find out about the educational background and how long the attorney has practiced law. You also want to know about previous cases that are similar in nature to your own. Ask what types of cases he or she normally takes, what percentage of cases have been won, and whether other attorneys will also work on your case.
2. What Are Your Options as a Plaintiff?
You will be responsible in part for your case. You will need to make difficult decisions and although your attorney is on your side, it may become complicated when you do not agree. Discuss what could happen if the attorney believes you should settle but you prefer to go to trial. Be sure to ask the same for if the opposite is true.
3. What Are the Fees for Legal Service?
Some attorneys include a retainer fee in the contract. This is a flat amount that you will be expected to pay, whether you win or not. Most offer to work on a contingency fee basis. This means that your attorney will not charge you, but will take a percentage of the settlement amount. There may also be separate fees for accessing records, filing certain forms, or other details, so be sure to ask about these.
If you or someone close to you has been injured and requires a personal injury lawyer, contact Malman Law for an evaluation.
