5 Crucial Questions to Ask Your Personal Injury Attorney in Champaign Before Hiring
After an accident, you should be careful to find the right personal injury attorney Champaign. You need an attorney who is experienced and knowledgeable. On top of that, you should be able to trust the attorney that you select as well. This is why you must ask few important questions from the personal injury attorney Naperville.
Let’s explore 5 such questions that you must ask.
How long have you been practicing personal injury law?
You'll want to find an attorney who has extensive experience specifically with personal injury cases. Ask the lawyer how long they have been in practice and how many personal injury cases they have handled. An attorney who has been specializing in this area for many years will understand the complex legal issues and be able to effectively evaluate and litigate your case.
What is your success record for cases that have gone to trial?
Understanding an attorney's background with cases that have gone to court can give insight into their abilities. Ask about their success record arguing cases before judges and juries. High settlement amounts and favorable verdicts are signs that the lawyer has strong negotiation, investigation, and litigation skills that can increase your chances of a successful outcome.
What types of damages can I seek compensation for in my case?
Every personal injury case is unique when it comes to establishing damages, or the harm and losses you have suffered financially, physically, and emotionally because of another party’s negligence or wrongful actions. Ask up front what types of compensation you may be legally entitled to be based on the details of your specific accident and injuries. Understanding potential damages helps set reasonable expectations for a possible settlement or court award amount.
What will your services cost if I hire you?
Attorneys handle personal injury fees differently, so it is important to understand exactly what the lawyer will charge and when. Many personal injury attorneys work on contingency, meaning legal fees are taken as a percentage of any final settlement or court award amount. Get clear upfront details in a fee agreement on contingency fee percentage amounts and whether any expenses such as expert witnesses or case investigation fees will be deducted from a potential settlement or award.
Can you provide references from past personal injury clients?
Speaking with former clients can provide invaluable insights into an attorney’s skills, demeanor working one-on-one with clients, and ability to deliver successful case results. Ask the lawyer for two or three references to call or email from recent personal injury clients. Pay attention to client satisfaction levels and if the attorney met or exceeded expectations handling previous cases similar to yours.