If you’ve been involved in an accident, you’re going to want an experienced personal injury lawyer by your side. Chicago is a huge city and there are thousands of attorneys to choose from. Friends and family and the Internet can provide recommendations but what exactly should you look for in a personal injury firm? Here are five key questions to ask that can help you assess and choose the personal injury firm best suited for you.
How Long Have You Been Doing This?
You don’t want a firm that dabbles in personal injury law, you want one that does nothing else but personal injury cases. Ask about how many years they have been in business, the number of cases handled, and their success rate in securing favorable outcomes for clients.
In addition, make sure they have experience with cases that are similar to yours. Personal injury firms might specialize in product liability, medical malpractice, workplace injuries, or car accident cases. Make sure the firm has an extensive track record of handling cases similar to yours.
Can I See Client Reviews or Testimonials?
Asking for references or testimonials from previous clients is an excellent way to gauge an attorney’s credibility and client satisfaction. These testimonials can provide valuable insights into the attorney’s communication skills, responsiveness, and ability to deliver results. Reach out to the references so you can hear firsthand about their experiences.
How Do You Approach Personal Injury Cases?
Do you want an attorney to settle your claim at all costs or someone who can take your case to trial if necessary? Ask about their approach to handling personal injury cases to assess whether they are right for your specific needs.
Make sure to inquire about their strategy for investigation, gathering evidence, negotiating with insurance companies, and, if necessary, taking the case to trial. The best firms will have a comprehensive approach to cases to get you the best possible outcome. This will often require extensive research, the use of expert testimony, and a willingness to fight for your rights.
How Do You Communicate with the Client?
Good communication and client involvement are extremely important when it comes to a successful attorney-client relationship. Ask about the attorney’s communication style and how frequently you can expect to be updated on the progress of your case.
Find out how they prefer to be contacted and whether they encourage clients to participate actively in the decision-making process. A personal injury firm that values transparency and open communication with clients will do its best to keep you well-informed and actively engaged throughout the legal process.
What’s This Going to Cost Me—Fee Arrangements and Billing Structure?
It is essential to understand exactly how a firm’s fee arrangements work and how it structures its billing processes. You don’t want to find yourself in a situation where you are surprised or confused by an invoice.
Ask whether the firm works on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if they win your case. If they do, what percentage of the settlement or verdict will they take as their fee? In addition, find out if there are any additional costs or expenses you may be responsible for, such as court fees or expert witness fees.
Contact a Chicago Personal Injury Attorney for Questions About Your Case
If you were involved in a personal injury case, you may need legal assistance. You could be injured and dealing with medical bills, property damage, and time missed from work. It would be beneficial to have an experienced personal injury firm behind you, guiding you on how to best pursue your claim.
