6 Important Questions to Ask a Personal Injury Lawyer

Published on: 19 July 2018 Last Updated on: 22 June 2021

The worst has happened. You got injured on the job, or your spouse hurt you in a fight.

Something happened to you while you were at the dentist, or you had a severe reaction to a latte.

Regardless, health care is expensive. There’s a chance that you’re not able to cover the bill.

You start wondering if there’s some other way to pay for your medical expenses. You talk to your company or ask for compensation. But no one is willing to do anything.

If this sounds like you or someone you love, it’s time to consider legal action. You can contact a personal injury lawyer who will help you get what you deserve.

But before you hire anyone, check out our six questions to ask a personal injury lawyer.

Why Hire a Personal Injury Lawyer?

Sometimes we get hurt, and it’s because of our own stupidity. But there are times when the blame rests on another party. This can be an individual, a company, or even a doctor. When this happens, it’s time to hire a personal injury lawyer.

There are many different kinds of lawyers who can help you. Choosing the right one depends on the personal injury questions you have.

Most personal injury lawyers can handle a car crash case. But what happens if there are many parties involved or if there is severe damage? You’ll need a lawyer with more experience in your type of case.

If a doctor injured you, then hire a lawyer with experience in medical malpractice. At least they need to know about medical procedures and misdiagnoses.

If you got hurt by a piece of machinery, then look for a lawyer with a background in corporate and negligence law.

Do some research into the nature of your case. That way you’ll be able to find the right personal injury lawyer for your needs.

What Information Do I Need Before I Talk to a Personal Injury Lawyer?

Keep in mind that scheduling a consultation with a lawyer is not the same as hiring them. You’re asking them in-depth questions about their background and career. You’d do the same for any contractor or real estate agent.

But before you sit down with a lawyer, it will help you to have a few things prepared.

First, you’ll need to record the details of your case. Write down everything that’s related to what happened. Describe the events in the order they happened, and be as detailed as possible.

If you need help, think of the 4 W’s. Who was involved? Where did the accident happen? When did it take place? What were you doing? In fact, what was everyone doing?

Try to be as factual as possible. If you lie, it will come out in court. Then you’ll be in trouble.

Gather any evidence you can. This includes things like:

Police reports, tickets, arrest information, and toxicology results
Eye-witness reports
Photographs and videos
Bills, receipts, medical records, and any diagnoses

Getting all this information in one folder will help you and the personal injury lawyer.

6 Questions to Ask a Personal Injury Lawyer

Hiring a lawyer is as personal as hiring a doctor or a therapist. It’s an expensive service, and you want to make sure you have the right lawyer for you. So check out our six questions to ask a personal injury lawyer before you hire them.

1. Have You Taken a Case Like Mine Before?

This is one of the most important questions to ask an attorney before hiring them. You want to make sure your case is in good hands, so don’t be afraid to ask about their experience.

Your lawyer should have years of experience working with cases like yours. It’s also important that they have experience winning cases, or making successful settlements.

Ask them for a reference list of all their cases. They should also have endorsements from past clients.

If your internal radar goes off, you can look up an attorney’s disciplinary records online. Some states need a lawyer’s bar number to do this. But other states like Georgia will list the lawyer’s name.

2. What is Your Opinion of My Case?

In other words, does this personal injury attorney think you’ll win?

This is one of the more dubious questions to ask a personal injury lawyer, but it’s an essential one. Their answer will help you make your decision about whether to hire this attorney.

You want them to give you an honest answer, of course. No decent lawyer wants to waste their time on a hopeless case, even if you are paying them.

They should give you an objective opinion about whether you’ll win your case based on the evidence you’ve given them.

That said, ask this question with an open mind. It’s easy for the victim of an accident to think they deserve compensation. If a personal injury lawyer is telling you it won’t happen, there might be some merit in that.

3. Will My Case Go to Trial?

Only 4%-5% of personal injury cases go to trial. That means there’s a good chance your case will settle out of court.

But no matter what the odds, a good personal injury lawyer will prepare to go to trial. In fact, it’s a red flag if the lawyer starts talking about settling out of court from the get-go.

Trials can be long and expensive for you. But if you have to go to court you want a lawyer who’s experienced. Ask them about their record in court, and whether the case won by a judge or jury.

Your lawyer should also be able to give you a timeline of how long a court proceeding takes.

While each case is unique, an experienced lawyer knows how things go at the local courthouse.

Regardless of whether you go to court, you need to talk with your lawyer about your level of involvement. Some people want to be at every meeting and deposition, but most lawyers won’t allow it. It’s often best for you to stay on the sidelines and trust your lawyer.

4. What are Your Fees?

This is another important question to ask an attorney. If you can’t afford this lawyer, then you’ll need to look for someone else.

A typical personal injury lawyer earns money based on contingency fees. That means you won’t pay any fees unless you win money damages in the lawsuit.

Once you do win the case, the personal injury lawyer will take a percentage of the money. This can range from 25% – 40% of anything you win from the lawsuit.

While this is a great incentive for your lawyer to win your case, it might not be the only bill. There are other costs you should ask about, like case-related costs. These are also known as “out of pocket” fees. Ask your lawyer about these fees, and who will pay them in case you lose.

Do not work with a personal injury lawyer who charges by the hour. These kinds of payment plans can get expensive in personal injury cases.

5. How Much is My Case Worth?

An experienced personal injury lawyer should give you an estimate on how much your case is worth. They’ll base this estimate on cases they’ve already won or worked on.

Most personal injury lawyers won’t give you a hard number to work with, but instead give you some kind of range. They need to explain how the different factors in your case will affect the bottom line.

You can also ask them point-blank whether they’ll make more for you than their competitors.

After all, this isn’t only about getting justice for you. It’s also about who’s going to pay your medical bills.

Money is always hard to talk about, but you have to do it. You can discover more about discussing your case worth by doing some research. Make sure that you factor in the lawyer’s contingency fee when you talk about how much you can make.

6. Who is Handling My Case?

This question is vital if you’re working with a large law firm. This is because that lawyer you spent all that time getting to know? He might not be the one representing you in court.

This might help you because you’ll have a larger team working on your case. Lawyers all specialize in different things. If your case is a complicated one, there’s a good chance it’ll get passed around the firm.

But that’s why it’s important to know who is handling your case, and why. You want to know who you need to contact in each situation. You should also ask about the track record of every lawyer on your case.

If your lawyer has less experience than the one you spoke to, ask about who is supervising them. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or voice your concerns.

Want More Tips About Hiring a Lawyer?

We have lots of informative blog posts on our site about the legal field. If you want to know about questions to ask a personal injury lawyer or other legal tips, check out our blog.

We also have articles on everything else you can imagine. From social media to entertainment to real estate, we have you covered. Take a look at our site for more great posts.

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Along for the Ride: Passenger Rights in Vehicle Accidents

Although we are aware of the risks, driving is just a routine activity many of us do automatically, like brushing our teeth or grabbing a cup of coffee. We climb in the car intent on the destination or lost in thought, which is why automobile accidents are so jarring. Even a mild fender bender seems to stop everything in its tracks, instantly negating the importance of everything we were thinking or saying. Whether the situation results in serious injuries or none at all, it demands immediate attention. Passersby jockey to catch a glimpse of something interesting; police officers fill out reports; tow trucks haul away damaged cars. Sometimes, there aren’t even minor injuries, but, obviously, not everyone is so lucky. Trusting ourselves is one thing. Trusting someone else is entirely different. Every time someone gets into a passenger seat or the back seat, they're trusting that the driver will get to the destination safely. Some passengers are happy not to have the responsibility of driving; others have a hard time giving up control. Regardless of your feelings, where does that leave you if you're injured in a vehicle accident? The accident certainly wasn't your fault, so what exactly are your rights as a passenger? Recovering for injuries suffered as a passenger in a car, truck, or motorcycle accident is really a claim against an insurance company rather than against the driver himself. Passengers can file a claim under the bodily injury or liability insurance coverage of the driver or owner of any vehicle responsible for causing the accident. If that is insufficient, there may be coverage available under uninsured motorist or underinsured motorist policies. Injured passengers are also allowed to file a claim under their own Personal Injury Protection (PIP) and/or Medical Payments (Med Pay) policies. With all these funding possibilities, passengers should be able to secure compensation for their damages, though in no instance are they allowed to collect any more than the total value of their claim. Many passengers are initially reluctant to seek compensation for damages because the driver is a close friend. It’s important to note that in most situations, the driver will not even know of the claim because it will be settled by lawyers and insurance companies before it gets to trial. The strain on any personal relationships should be minimal unless the insurance company does not act in good faith to resolve the claim and it must be litigated instead. Even at that time and although the driver will be named in the lawsuit, the true conflict is between the driver’s insurance company and the passenger. There are special rules that apply when the passenger is related to the driver and shares the same household. In most of these cases, the passenger is barred from collecting under the driver’s liability policy because he or she is an “insured person” and such persons are not permitted to file a liability claim against their own liability policy. A claim can still be brought against other drivers who are at fault for the accident. Read also: TIPS TO KEEP YOUR KIDS SAFE IN A CAR The seat next to the driver has a reputation for being the most dangerous one in the car, even having been referred to as “the death seat.” Of course, it is more common to have one passenger than several, so the front seat is occupied more frequently than the rear seats. There is also some truth to the idea that in a crash a front seat passenger has nothing to stop him or her from being ejected through the window, whereas the driver has the steering wheel. Or, at least, that used to be the prevailing line of thought. The last few decades have brought about major advances in safety that have reduced the probability of being seriously injured while riding in the front seat. Seat belts, airbags, and crumple zones equally benefit drivers and front-seat riders. According to a study by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, adults over age 55 were more likely to die in a crash while seated in the back than in the front – even if they were wearing seat belts. The study found that adults in the rear were more likely than adults in the front to sustain chest injuries, and there was some evidence of an elevated risk of head and neck injuries for restrained women seated in the rear compared with the front. The IIHS also recently performed front-overlap crash tests of seven small SUVs and found that certain models may have a big gap in safety between drivers and their passengers. The seven models received good ratings after the front driver's side corner of the vehicle hit a barrier at 40 miles per hour, but only one model – the 2016 Hyundai Tucson -- rated as good when the same test was performed on the front passenger side. While three models received acceptable ratings and two models received marginal ratings, the 2015 Toyota RAV4 was rated as poor. The IIHS suspected that the difference was partly due to a greater emphasis on the vehicle frame and structure for the driver's side, but there is no excuse for inferior passenger protection. Read also: How To Shop For A Car With Your Teen Driver? If you were a passenger in a vehicle involved in a collision and were seriously injured as a result, or if you lost someone you love in such an accident, you should contact an experienced personal injury lawyer who can examine the circumstances of your case and advise you of your rights. Personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay them unless there is a settlement or verdict in your favor. Passengers with serious injuries are entitled to appropriate and thorough medical care for their physical, emotional, and psychological injuries suffered as a result of the accident, as well as full compensation for their pain and suffering, mental anguish, property damage, and lost wages. It is also critical that you at least consult with an attorney before speaking with an insurance company investigator or adjuster. Their job is to spend as little money as possible while quickly settling a large number of claims, and they are well-trained in the fine art of getting you to make statements that can come back to haunt you later. Since you are bound by what you say, it is often wise to let an attorney speak for you.

Probate Fees 101: Breaking Down The Different Costs Of Probate In NSW

Probation is a vital legal process for handling the estate of a deceased person. In New South Wales (NSW), understanding the various costs associated with probate is crucial for estate administrators. This article aims to provide a detailed view of the different expenses involved in the probate process in NSW. We will delve into each component, offering insights to help you navigate the cost of probate NSW. What is Probate? Probate is a legal process necessary to ensure that the wishes of a deceased person accomplish according to their Will. It involves presenting the Will to the Supreme Court of NSW to verify its validity and to grant the executor the authority to administer the estate. This process can be complicated and also time-consuming, but ensuring that the estate is distributed fairly and following the deceased's wishes is essential. If you have recently lost a dear one and are unsure about the probate process, you should seek the advice of an extremely qualified and highly experienced legal professional who can guide you. Understanding Probate Fees Probate fees can include a range of expenses incurred during the probate process, which is the legal procedure of administering a deceased person's estate. Some of the costs of probate NSW may include legal, court, and executor fees. The complexity of the estate can play a role in determining the overall cost of probate, as more complex estates may require more time and resources to manage. The specific services required during probate can also impact the total cost. For example, if the estate involves disputes or challenges to the Will, this can increase the overall cost of probate. Court Fees One of the primary expenses in the probate process is the court fees. When filing for probate in NSW, one must pay an application to the Supreme Court. The fee is calculated based on the estate's value, determined by the gross value of the deceased's assets. It is essential to gather accurate asset valuations to determine the appropriate cost of probate NSW. Executor's Commission The estate executor, responsible for administering the assets and distributing them according to the Will, is entitled to receive a commission for the offered services. The commission is usually a portion of the estate's value and is subject to court approval. This commission compensates the executor for their time, effort, and responsibility in managing the estate. Legal Fees Engaging a solicitor or a law firm to assist with the probate process is common practice. Legal fees can vary depending on the complexity of the estate and the services required. It is advisable to obtain a detailed breakdown of the legal fees before engaging legal professionals. The legal fees typically cover services such as reviewing the Will, preparing and filing probate documents, communicating with beneficiaries and creditors, and providing legal guidance. Accountant Fees When it's about managing the financial aspects of the probate process, it may be beneficial to seek the assistance of an accountant. They can provide valuable expertise in ensuring accurate financial reporting and preparing estate tax returns. Additionally, they can offer sound advice on complex financial matters related to the estate. The cost of probate NSW charged by accountants will depend on the services provided, with hourly rates or a percentage of the estate's value being the most common payment structures. Ultimately, enlisting the services of an accountant can help ensure that the probate process runs smoothly and efficiently, giving you peace during a potentially stressful time. Valuation Fees To accurately determine the value of the deceased's assets, it may be necessary to obtain professional valuations. Valuation fees can apply to properties, investments, collectibles, and other valuable assets that form part of the estate. Professional valuers assess the fair market value of the assets, considering factors such as current market conditions, asset conditions, and demand. These valuations are crucial for estate accounting and distribution purposes. Advertising and Notice Fees As part of the probate process, placing advertisements or publishing notices in newspapers to notify potential creditors and beneficiaries is often required. These advertising and notice fees can vary depending on the publication and the duration of the advertisement. Giving public notice ensures that any interested parties can come forward with any claims against the estate or assert their rights as beneficiaries. Other Miscellaneous Costs Apart from the fees mentioned above, there is also another miscellaneous cost of probate NSW. These include postage, courier fees, photocopying, and document certification charges. These smaller costs can add up, so it is important to record all these expenses for accurate accounting purposes. Maintaining detailed documentation of every expense is advisable to ensure transparency and accountability. Summing Up Probate fees in NSW encompass a range of costs essential to an estate's successful administration. Understanding these expenses is crucial to effectively manage the probate process, from court to legal and accountant fees. By breaking down the different costs, we hope this article has provided you with valuable insights to navigate the complexities of the cost of probate NSW. Probate fees in NSW can be significant but essential to ensuring a smooth and legally valid estate administration. By being aware of the various expenses involved and seeking professional guidance, you can navigate the probate process with confidence and efficiency. Probate Consultants offer their services at reasonable prices and ensure their clients can relax while they complete all the court formalities. So, contact them and provide a worry-free grant of the probate procedure. Read Also: 10 Estate Planning Tips to Help You Prepare for the End 5 Easy Estate Planning Tips to Help You Plan for the Future Surviving Loss: What to Do With an Estate After You Lose a Loved One

Procedures To Opt After Bicycle Crash

No matter how it happened whether injuries happened or just the bike has been totaled, it could be a saddening event. But the actual problem is how to handle this moment of chaos. Here are some tips to follow in case you have gone through this misery. 1. Call the police or ambulance One of the most important steps to take after a bicycle crash is to call the police or any other emergency number of your area. Now, this also depends upon the type of accident that happened. If the injuries happened then immediately seek medical care, to prevent serious long term damage. 2. Check for the injuries Check for the injuries even if they are the minor ones because at the moment they might seem minor but you can’t tell what kind of issues it could bring in the future. Maybe the injury was internal bleeding or tissue damage who’s symptoms appear late. So seek medical help immediately after the accident. 3. Have a powerful piece of evidence Look for witnesses around, take pictures of the damage that occurred, and try to take as much as possible to cover the scenario. Wait for the police to arrive as it’s their job to describe the crash scene in the best way possible. Also, try to describe your version of the story discreetly. 4. Know your right to claim for the damage occurred One of the most important things that should be kept in check is that knowing your right claim for the damages doesn't matter whether the injuries happened or not. Even if the cycle is damaged you could claim for the damages. But obviously, the court will check who is to be declared the root cause of the accident. 5. Have a trusted Bicycle accident attorneys Look for the trusted attorneys that could help you with the bicycle crash and trust me they could offer you with the best piece of advice to get you out of all the fuss being created. Many attorneys that will help you deal with the situation one good example of such kind are Bicycle Crash Attorneys Atlanta. From there you will get a trustworthy lawyer that could help you to reimburse your loss. 6. Contact the Insurance Company. In order to claim the damages, contact the insurance company, show them the recorded evidence, the pictures of the damage, statements from the witness. Show them complete paperwork along with the court’s judgment and ask for the amount so that the damages could be compensated. Also, be very careful when claiming your money back the insurance guy might be very humble but he is not your friend. So, cycling safety is the root cause that needs to be dealt with; also the road rules should be strictly followed. There is one thing that happens a lot is that the bicycle rider is being depreciated in most of the cases where a bicycle and a car crash happened. This is because car owners think that the bicycle rider has not suffered as much of a loss as they do so it's okay if they are being lowballed. But this is the duty of a cyclist that he/she should know his/her rights and act accordingly. Read Also: Learn How Personal Injury Claims Are Resolved in 5 Steps Reasons for hiring any Personal Injury Attorney is Important Dos and Don’ts When You’re Involved in a Motorcycle Accident

6 Important Questions to Ask a Personal Injury Lawyer

Why Hire a Personal Injury Lawyer?

What Information Do I Need Before I Talk to a Personal Injury Lawyer?

6 Questions to Ask a Personal Injury Lawyer