If you were wrongfully injured, we understand that you have many questions about the process of hiring a personal injury attorney and preparing a case for settlement or trial.
As part of our ongoing Legal Education Series, our 6-part series titled: Understanding the Steps Involved In a Personal Injury Case, explains the stages of a personal injury case from start to finish.
Let’s get started with Part 1: 4 Things To Expect In A Consultation With A Personal Injury Attorney
Your first meeting with a personal injury attorney is very important. It will provide you with an opportunity to learn more about a personal injury firm and the lawyers’ level of experience with a case like yours. Selecting a team of attorneys who are familiar with your injury or legal case can improve your chances of a favorable outcome.
At the first meeting, you should expect to have an open and honest discussion with your attorney, including some time focused on these subject areas:
1. Understanding Your Case: Who, What, When, Where and Why
Your personal injury attorney and their team need to fully understand your case before they can proceed with any legal action. This will require a detailed discussion and many questions surrounding the details of your case.
2. Explaining The Legal Process
An experienced lawyer should be able to offer insight on how your case can proceed toward a favorable conclusion. Your attorney should walk you through the legal process, step-by-step, to provide you with an understanding of exactly what may be happening behind the scenes. Filing legal briefs, requests for replies and going through documents can take time; your attorney should discuss these steps with you so you understand how your attorney is working on your behalf.
3. Determining Your Role In The Case
Believe it or not, you play a vital role in the outcome of your case. At your first consultation your attorney should thoroughly explain the steps you will need to take to ensure a successful outcome. Some of the key things you will be responsible for during your case include: meeting with the doctor regularly, never missing appointments and being truthful and transparent through every step of the process
4. Establishing A Communication Process
Establishing a regular communication schedule is extremely beneficial for both clients and their attorneys. As you work with your attorney, you should feel like their first priority. You should expect your attorney to initiate regular conversations about your health and injury improvements or any legal developments in your case.
The next article in our Legal Education Series will define and explain the discovery phase, in Understanding A Personal Injury Case: Part #2: The 4 Steps Involved In Discovery For A Personal Injury Case.
At Murphy & Prachthauser we practice personal injury law the way it should be practiced – motivated and equipped to do our best for you. We take pride in being good lawyers who help people.
If you have a case you would like to speak to a lawyer about, complete a free case evaluation and get an experienced team of lawyers working on your behalf.