Your initial consultation with an attorney is an interview—you are hiring a professional for a vital service.
Preparing with targeted questions will enable you to choose a lawyer with the necessary skills, experience, and resources to effectively manage your case.
A lawyer’s general background is important, but their specific experience with cases similar to yours is paramount. You need to understand their track record with situations that mirror your own.
How many cases have you handled involving this type of accident (e.g., commercial truck accident, slip and fall, medical malpractice)?
Who in the firm will be my primary point of contact and who will perform the majority of the work on my case—you, a junior associate, or a paralegal?
What is your strategy for collecting evidence and negotiating with the insurance company?
Are there any immediate actions I should take to protect my claim?
Does this percentage increase if the case proceeds to trial?
What happens to these costs if we lose the case? Am I responsible for repaying them?
What is your firm's policy on returning phone calls and emails?
How many cases are you currently managing? This can help you determine if the attorney has sufficient time and resources to dedicate to your case.
What is your reputation within the legal community? You can often research this through client testimonials and peer reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, and Super Lawyers. You should also check with your state's bar association for any public disciplinary records.