If you are a pedestrian, motorcyclist, or motorist who was injured by another driver, if you were bitten by a dog, if you were injured by a faulty product, if you are the victim or medical malpractice, or if you slipped and fell and someone is at fault, you may be able to file a personal injury case. A personal injury lawyer can help you file a case, show the other party was at fault and get you a fair settlement. But before you hire an attorney, it is always important to sit down and have a consultation. There are many questions to ask during this meeting. Here are three important questions you should ask about money when you sit down for a consultation with a personal injury lawyer:
How Much Do You Charge?
One of the important money-related questions that you should ask when you are having a consultation with a personal injury lawyer is about their fees. It is important to ask how much the lawyer charges. Most lawyers charge a flat-fee of your settlement or award. Typically, the fee changes and is higher if your case goes to trial, versus settling before trial. As such, always consider both of the fees that may be charged.
What Happens If You Lose the Case?
Another important question to ask the lawyer is what happens if you lose your case. Since the lawyer takes a percentage of your award, they may get nothing if they lose the case. However, this is not always true. Some lawyers have it written in their contract that they will get paid a certain amount of money if the case is lost, which may leave you trying to figure out how to pay them.
How Much Do You Think My Case is Worth?
The last money-related question to ask when you are sitting down for a consultation with a personal injury lawyer is how much they think your case is worth and why. Different attorneys will value your case at different amounts. Asking why they feel this way allows you to find an attorney who shares the same vision and mentality in regards to your case as you do.
When you sit down for a consultation with a personal injury lawyer, there are many important questions to ask. Some of the questions should be focused on their experience and track record, while others should be focused on time. Money is also an important topic of discussion. Asking these questions will help answer the money-related questions you have and help you select a personal injury attorney for your claim.
Contact a law office like Radano & Lide for more information and assistance.