Important Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Personal Injury Law Firm
If you've been injured in an accident, it's important to consult with a personal injury law firm as soon as possible. But how do you know which firm is right for you? Here are some questions to ask before making a decision.
1. What Types of Cases Does Your Firm Handle?
Personal injury firms typically take on different types of cases, depending on the experience and expertise of their attorneys. For example, some practices focus solely on car accident claims, while others concentrate specifically on medical malpractice litigation. Others may handle product liability cases or wrongful death suits, while some can handle all types of injury cases. So, be sure to ask what types of cases the firm specializes in and whether yours is included.
2. How Many Years Has Your Firm Been in Business?
While some new personal injury law firms offer great promise, most experienced lawyers are preferable to those with little experience. After all, more years practicing means the attorneys likely have more knowledge and resources at their disposal. And it also means they're better able to determine whether you have a legitimate claim and if they can get you a favorable settlement or verdict.
3. How Much Do You Charge?
While some law firms offer their services on a contingency basis which means they only get paid if you are awarded compensation, others charge a flat fee before taking on your case. So, you'll want to find out how much the firm charges ahead of time, so you're not caught off guard later. The total fees charged in your case can vary depending on the type of case and how much work is required.
4. Can I Receive a Free Consultation?
Be sure to ask if you can receive a free consultation before signing any contract. No matter the type of case, it's always best to meet with an injury attorney first before hiring them to handle your claim. This way, you can get answers to all your questions and find out if they're right for you. At Sarkisian Law Offices we always offer a free consultation to review your case, and so you can get to know our firm before choosing us to represent you.
5. How Will My Case Be Handled?
According to statistics from the United States Department of Justice, only 4%of personal injury claims go to trial, with the majority settled out of court. They discovered that around 16,397 cases were tried each year. This means you should go for a personal injury law firm that has experience settling cases and resolving disputes without going before a judge and jury.
Asking these questions is an important first step you should take before hiring a personal injury law firm. Doing so will help give you a better idea of how your case will be handled and what to expect from the process of filing a personal injury claim. Looking for an experienced personal injury law firm? Call us today.
