When you have been injured in an accident, hiring an attorney can be within your best interests. Before you take the plunge, though, make sure you know 10 questions to ask an attorney.

1.  Who will be working on my case? 

In some cases, the attorney you speak to is not the only person who is working on your case; staff members and paralegals may handle the bulk of it. Before you agree to this, ask if you can meet those people who will be working on your behalf.

2.  How much do you charge? 

Some attorneys just trying to make a quick buck will charge high hourly or up-front fees. Choosing an attorney who works on a contingency fee basis—i.e., the attorney being paid is contingent on your case being won—is the most cost effective method.

3.  How long will my case take to settle? 

If an attorney promises that your case will be settled in just a few weeks time, he may be pulling your leg. Most cases take multiple months to resolve – an attorney should be upfront and honest with you about what to expect.

4.  What will my role be in the process? 

As the plaintiff, you will have an invaluable role in the claims/lawsuit process. You may need to testify, collect evidence, and more. Ask an attorney what your role will be and what you can expect moving forward.

5.  What is your experience in this case type?

If you have been in a slip and fall accident, hiring an attorney that only has experience representing car accident victims probably is not within your best interests. Before hiring an attorney, make sure that the attorney has plenty of experience handling your case type.

6.  Are there any areas of law in which you specialize? 

Similar to above, some attorneys specialize specifically in one area of law. If you have been in a car accident, a car accident attorney who specializes in that area may be more advantageous for your case.

7.  Will my case go to court? 

Not all cases go to court; many claims are settled in out-of-court negotiations. The second is usually the most preferable method, and the least expensive. Ask what your attorney thinks will happen in your case, and be prepared for both.

8.  Who covers upfront costs? 

Successful claims and lawsuits often require money – it may be necessary to hire investigative experts or other professionals who can testify on your behalf. Make sure you ask who will cover these upfront costs, you or your attorney.

9.  Do you have any client testimonies? 

Ask your attorney if he or she has any client testimonials that he can provide you with. Learning about other clients’ experiences can help to determine whether the attorney is a good fit for you.

10. What is your case success history?

Finally, find out what the attorney’s history is in terms of successful cases. If he cannot show you past instances where he recovered a large settlement on a client’s behalf, he may not be the right attorney for you.

Contact the Montero Law Center at 954-767-6500 and we will answer any questions you have. Our focus is on making you comfortable and getting you the settlement you deserve.