Personal Injury Lawyers - 14 Questions to Ask Before You Hire One

What are your areas of expertise?

2. What do you charge for your legal advice? Is there a lawyer retainer fee?

3. Will you be the only attorney who will work on my case within your law firm?

4. How many cases did you try on my particular situation? What was the result?

5. How long will it be before you feel there will be a resolution to my case?

6. How much will my case cost me?

7. Do you take cases on a contingent fee basis?

8. Is there anyway I can help you with my case to keep the cost lower?

9. If you are not available, are there other attorneys in your firm who would be familiar with my particular case?

10. Do you have a plan in place for your clients who have an emergency? How can I get in contact with you if an emergency occurs?

11. What is your office's turnaround time on returned phone calls?

12. How often do you try cases?

13. Do you have any negativity on your past history as an attorney?

14. Are there any references available from your satisfied clients?

Try to get a good estimated amount of the costs taken care of as soon as possible. You don't want to have any surprises.

If more than one attorney will be working on your case, it's a good idea to meet with him as well. Find out about his credentials, his area of expertise, etc. You need to feel comfortable with the people you choose to defend your case. Feel free to ask him the same questions above.