Three Important Questions to Ask When Interviewing a Personal Injury Attorney
Following an accident, the last thing you are probably thinking about is pursuing legal action against the at-fault party. That might be especially true if you or your loved one has been seriously injured in the accident.
As difficult as it might be, it is important to immediately consult an experienced accident attorney to ensure that your legal rights are protected and that you get the full compensation you deserve.
The selection process can also be overwhelming, especially for those experiencing substantial pain, still undergoing medical treatment, and dealing with the pressures associated with the financial fallout from the accident.
The best way to begin your search for a California accident attorney is by contacting personal injury law firms offering free consultations. During an initial consultation with a California personal injury attorney, you can ask questions that will give you a sense of your legal rights and options as they relate to your case. An initial consultation also allows you to interview the attorney and legal staff to determine whether they are the right fit for you.
The key to getting the most from your free personal injury consultation is asking the right questions.
Here are three key questions that you should ask during your initial consultation with a personal injury lawyer:
What is your area of expertise?
Perhaps one of the most important questions to ask a personal injury attorney is their area of expertise. Does the attorney run a general practice, or do they specialize in personal injury law? If they specialize in California injury law, which is ideal, ask them if they have expertise in the practice area related to your case, whether it is medical malpractice, premises liability claims, or car accident lawsuits.
What is your fee?
The initial consultation is the perfect time to inquire about the attorney’s fee structure and outline of possible costs and expenses that may be part of your case. Most personal injury law firms in California will charge a contingency fee. A contingency fee structure means that you won’t pay any fees upfront. Instead, the attorney will collect their fees only if you receive a settlement or an award in your case. The percentage of your settlement owed to the attorney will be negotiated before the start of your case. Only after your case is successful will the personal injury lawyer recoup their fees, plus costs and expenses from a portion of your settlement.
Inquire about the attorney’s availability?
Many steps are involved in filing a personal injury claim, and the process is even more complicated if the case results in a trial. You must hire a personal injury lawyer with the time and resources necessary to handle your claim promptly and efficiently. Because of the statutes of limitations on personal injury lawsuits and other civil matters, the lawyer’s availability is especially important because you don’t want to miss any important deadlines.
Consult with an accident attorney in Los Angeles
If you or a loved one was injured in an accident caused by another party’s negligence, you might be entitled to financial compensation by filing a personal injury claim with the help of an experienced personal injury lawyer. For more information or to schedule a free consultation, call the Law Offices of Samer Habbas today at 888-848-5084.