10 Questions You Might Have for a Personal Injury Attorney
Hiring a personal injury attorney is an important step as you try to rebuild your life after a harmful accident in Kentucky. An attorney can make the legal process easier for you so you can focus on healing from a serious injury. However, not all attorneys are created equal. While you search for your lawyer, learn what questions to ask to find out if he or she is the right fit for you.
How Much Experience Do You Have?
Start by asking about the attorney’s experience with cases in your practice area. The lawyer you choose should have years of real-world experience litigating cases on behalf of clients injured in accidents that are similar to yours. If you were injured in a car accident, for example, find a lawyer with experience in motor vehicle accident law. This will ensure your lawyer has the knowledge to handle your case.
Can You Take My Case?
Next, ask about the attorney’s availability. Some law firms accept as many cases as possible and settle them rapidly to maximize their own profitability. These mill-type law firms will not offer a personalized legal experience or take the time to negotiate for the case results that you deserve. Other lawyers are too busy to take on a new case at all. Look for a lawyer who is selective in the cases that are accepted to ensure you receive individualized attention.
Are You the Lawyer Who Will Handle My Case?
Another potential problem to avoid is a lawyer who passes cases off to paralegals or assistants. Ask the attorney you meet with during your free consultation whether he or she will be the person handling your case. If not, ask to speak to the attorney who you will be dealing with.
How Can I Communicate With You During My Case?
You should not be left in the dark about your personal injury claim; your attorney should be available when you call or contact the law firm for information and updates about your case. Ask how you will be able to communicate with your attorney while your case is pending, as well as the hours you can expect an attorney to answer your calls.
Can You Show Me Results for Comparable Cases?
Although past case results are not necessarily indicative of future success and cannot guarantee a positive outcome for your personal injury case, it can prove that the law firm has what it takes to win. Ask about settlements and judgment awards collected on behalf of prior clients, particularly in the same practice area as your case.
What Are Your Past Client Testimonials Like?
Look for signs that the attorney is trustworthy and offers a positive client experience, such as law firm reviews on a third-party website or client testimonials. Reading testimonials can give you an idea of what to expect should you decide to hire the lawyer.
How Much Do You Charge?
Don’t be afraid to ask how much it will cost to hire the attorney for your personal injury case. Many lawyers operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you will pay $0 upfront and $0 if the lawyer does not secure financial compensation on your behalf.
How Much Might My Case Be Worth?
It is important to have an idea of the potential value of your personal injury case before you begin negotiations with an insurance claims adjuster. Ask your lawyer how much he or she believes your case could be worth based on the severity of your injuries and other relevant factors.
Will My Case Go to Court in Kentucky?
The vast majority of personal injury cases in Kentucky are resolved with settlements, meaning they do not have to go to court. A lawyer can evaluate your case to predict whether or not it is likely to go to trial. Finding a lawyer with trial capabilities can help you obtain a better case outcome, as an insurance company will be more incentivized to work out a settlement and avoid the costs of court.
How Long Do You Think My Case Will Take?
Finally, ask for a projected timeline for your personal injury case. While the timing of a case is subject to change based on how negotiations progress, it can help to have at least a rough idea of how long your case might take to resolve. This can make it easier for you and your family to pick up the pieces and move forward from a harmful accident.
If you are ready to schedule a free case consultation with a reputable personal injury lawyer in Louisville to learn more, contact HJV Car Accident Personal Injury Lawyers at (502) 540-5700.
Contact the Louisville Personal Injury Law Firm of HJV Car Accident Personal Injury Lawyers for Help Today
For more information, don’t hesitate to contact HJV Car Accident Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation with a personal injury lawyer in Louisville today. We have two convenient locations in Louisville and Fort Mitchell, Kentucky.
We proudly serve Jefferson County, Kenton County, and its surrounding areas:
HJV Car Accident Personal Injury Lawyers – Louisville, KY Office
600 W Main St Ste 200
Louisville, KY, 40202
(502) 540-5700
HJV Car Accident Personal Injury Lawyers – Fort Mitchell, KY Office
2380 Grandview Dr
Fort Mitchell, KY, 41017
(859) 578-4444