Choosing an Injury Lawyer? Ask These Questions on the First Call
Frank Stucki, Esq., MBA
Search "injury lawyer near me" and you get billboards, ads and slogans. None of it tells you how your case will actually be handled. I'm Frank Stucki, Esq., MBA. The first call is your interview, and you're allowed to ask hard questions. A good lawyer will welcome them. Here's what I'd ask if I were in your shoes.
Who will handle my case?
- Will I work with you, or will my case be handed to someone else?
- Who is my day-to-day contact, and how do I reach them?
- Are you licensed where my case would be filed? If not, who is?
- Will you refer my case to another firm? Which one, and why?
Referrals aren't automatically bad, but you deserve to know. In Nevada, lawyers at different firms can split a fee only if you agree to the arrangement in writing.
How does the fee work?
- What percentage do you take, and does it change if we file suit or go to trial?
- Is the percentage figured before or after case costs?
- If there's no recovery, do I owe anything for costs?
These aren't awkward questions. In Nevada, a contingency fee agreement has to be in writing, signed by you, and explain how expenses are handled. Get a copy and read it before you sign.
How will I hear from you?
- How often will you update me, and how?
- How quickly do you return calls?
- Will you tell me about every settlement offer?
Whether to settle is your decision. Make sure you'll hear about offers.
Will you try my case?
Most injury cases settle, but insurers pay attention to which lawyers are ready for trial. Ask whether the lawyer has tried injury cases, and who would stand up in court if yours doesn't settle.
Red flags
Be cautious of anyone who:
1. Promises a specific result or dollar amount
2. Pressures you to sign on the first call
3. Won't explain the fee agreement or give you a copy
4. Can't tell you who will handle your case
No honest lawyer can guarantee an outcome. What you can expect is a clear explanation of how your case will be evaluated and what happens next. Deadlines apply to injury claims, so make that first call early.
Read the full guide: https://frankstucki.com/insights/choosing-an-injury-lawyer-questions-to-ask
Call 702.702.2676
Frank Stucki, Esq., MBA
This article provides general legal information, not legal advice. Reading it does not create an attorney-client relationship.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
By Frank Stucki
Frank is a trial attorney licensed in Nevada, Washington, and Utah, handling personal injury, institutional abuse, and catastrophic injury cases. California and other states are handled with local co-counsel.