9 Things You Should Know About a Free Lawyer Consultation
August 19, 2022 | Sagi Shaked | Personal Injury
If you have been injured in a car accident, slip and fall, or other incident, you might be looking for a free consultation with a lawyer to determine whether you have a case.
You likely have hundreds of questions on your mind, nearly all of them about your potential case. To help simplify the process as much as possible, here are nine things you should know about free lawyer consultations.
1. This Will Be the Introduction Between You and Your Prospective Attorney
You may think your consultation time is dedicated to helping the attorney learn about your case. However, it is also your time to learn about the attorney. Do you think they will be able to appropriately handle your case? Are they trustworthy?
Aside from your initial impression, this is a good time to pay attention to how they address the specifics of your particular case. Consider the obstacles you are up against and determine whether the lawyer you are meeting with is a good fit.
2. Know What Questions to Ask
Now is the time to write down the questions you want to ask the lawyer during the consultation. Questions could include factors pertaining to your case and the attorney’s candor, cost, and methodology.
3. Concerning the Statute of Limitations
If it has been some time since the incident occurred, you may want to ask the lawyer whether the statute of limitations has expired. Even if it appears to have expired, extenuating circumstances may allow for you to file suit anyway. An attorney will be able to give you the most pertinent, up-to-date information.
4. What Happened, and How Did It Harm You?
Your attorney will want to know what kind of occurrence gave rise to your claim and how that occurrence harmed you. Remember that harm does not necessarily need to be a bodily injury. Financial injury can be grounds for litigation as well.
With this in mind, it is a good idea to keep a record of what happened during the incident. You might want to include specifics on your mental and financial state if either were adversely impacted.
5. Documents to Bring with You
Your lawyer will be able to do a better job if you provide them with all of the information they need, including any documents related to your case. Specific documents could include:
- Reports (including accident reports and police reports)
- Your personal notes related to the matter
- Insurance information
- Property information
- Citations
- Medical documentation
If you have any questions concerning what documents to bring, ask for instructions when you schedule the consultation.
6. Your Recollection
Throughout the consultation, the lawyer will ask you what you remember about the incident. Their goal here is usually to uncover as many facts as possible. This is why it is important to prepare detailed notes and documents.
7. Fees
After the attorney is familiar with the case, they will likely want to discuss fees. Some attorneys, like those who work on personal injury cases, will work on a contingency basis. This means they get paid when you receive compensation.
However, some attorneys charge a flat fee, which means you have to pay for their time no matter the outcome.
8. Case Law
Once the attorney determines whether your case can be filed, they will inform you of your standing.
If they determine that your case is viable, they will likely discuss their fees and how to proceed. Conversely, if they determine that your case does not have merit, know you can seek a second opinion.
9. What Happens Now?
If the attorney agrees to take your case, they will likely let you know what the next steps are. Their methodology can differ depending on the nature of the case. Remember that most lawyer consultations are no-obligation, meaning you do not have to hire the attorney after the meeting.
Contact a Miami Personal Injury Lawyer for Help With Your Claim
A free consultation gives you a chance to learn more about your rights and options after an accident. You should use it to your full advantage.
Contact Shaked Law Personal Injury Attorneys to schedule a free initial case review with an experienced Miami personal injury attorney.
If you’ve been injured in an accident in Miami, FL and need legal help, contact our Miami Personal Injury lawyers at Shaked Law Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation.
Shaked Law Personal Injury Lawyers
20900 NE 30th Ave Suite 715
Aventura, FL 33180
(305) 937-0191