If you’ve been injured and think you may have a personal injury claim, you’re doing the right thing by not filing without an attorney; your chances of a successful outcome are much higher with legal representation. But how do you evaluate an attorney? We understand that the initial steps to finding the correct legal representation can be overwhelming, as our clients have told us.
Learn more about our Sacramento Personal Injury Attorney Services.
Another fact our clients have shared with us: They are very nervous coming into the free consultation. We understand, for one simple reason: There is so much at stake, from lost wages and financial well-being to recovering from injuries and paying for medical treatment. So, it’s perfectly normal to feel uncertain and even anxious.
When we sense this is the case at the free consultation with a potential client, we remind them of one essential fact: The consultation has no downside. Regardless of the outcome (whether they hire us or not), there is no charge, and they will leave the appointment with a much clearer understanding of their future regarding their personal injury claim.
The Value of Knowing What Questions to Ask at A Free Consultation with a Personal Injury Attorney
We want our clients to ask us the right questions because an informed client is a calm client, and a calm client can focus on healing from their injuries and taking care of themselves and their family. We don’t try to keep people in the dark, and no attorney should. We consistently find that when individuals know what questions to ask, everything settles down: They may not know precisely what the outcome will be, but they leave their consultation feeling like they have a plan in place and are walking away with clear, understandable answers.
So, whether you schedule a free consultation with one of our Sacramento personal injury attorneys or with someone else, keep this list handy. We know it will help.
Questions to Help You Prepare for a Free Consultation with a Personal Injury Attorney
- How long have you been practicing Personal injury law in Sacramento?
- What is your firm’s experience with personal injury cases like mine? (If you have been in a car accident or you are a victim of a slip and fall accident, this is specifically about that area of practice.)
- What is your success rate or track record with cases similar to mine?
- What happens if my damages are more than the at-fault party’s insurance policy limits?
- How often will we be in communication with each other?
- How do I reach you if I have a question?
- What is the potential value of my case?
- Do you require any upfront payment?
- Do I pay any fees if I don’t win a settlement?
- What are the details of your contingency fee structure?
- Will you personally handle my case?
- What is your approach to investigations?
- What is the estimated duration of the claim, and if it goes to litigation, how long does that typically take?
Support for Injured Persons in Sacramento
If you are the victim of a catastrophic injury such as a spinal cord injury, support groups are available and extremely helpful. The Northern California Spinal Cord Injury Foundation (NCSCI) offers support groups in various locations throughout Northern California. Be sure to ask us about other resources for your specific type of injury at your free consult.
Fair, Maximum Compensation is the Goal
Remember, your goal is to win the best possible settlement that fairly compensates you for damages, including property damage, lost wages, medical expenses (current and future), and pain and suffering. If your injuries are catastrophic, you may also be able to receive compensation for the loss of future earning capacity or associated damages.
After You’ve Hired a Personal Injury Attorney
Once you have hired an attorney, they should walk you through the process as it applies to your specific situation. Here are a few questions to ask your attorney once you have agreed to work together and they have a clear understanding of the facts.
- What are the potential complications or challenges my claim faces?
- Could comparative negligence be a factor? (Comparative negligence in California refers to a portion of the liability being assigned to the injured party and a portion to another party or parties.)
- What are the chances of my claim going to court?
- What is the total amount of damages my case may be worth?
Keep in mind that it’s unlikely that your personal injury attorney will be able to give you specific answers to these questions, and that’s because no two personal injury claims are exactly alike. Still, you’ll feel better if you ask them.
Affordable Personal Injury Attorneys in Sacramento
Eason & Tambornini’s personal injury attorneys are ready to help. Call (916) 438-1819 to schedule your free consultation. Review these questions and add your own if you have any additional ones.