If you have never had to seek financial compensation for an injury, you may not know what to expect when you first meet with a personal injury attorney in Texas. The initial consultation may be intimidating, but it is an opportunity for an attorney to answer any questions you may have, usually at no cost to you and no obligation to hire the firm. It also provides you with a chance to find out whether a personal injury attorney is right to handle your case. Knowing what to expect can help you better prepare for your first meeting with a personal injury lawyer in Houston.
Who Will Be Present at the Meeting
The majority of initial consultations with personal injury lawyers are only between the potential client and the lawyer. There may also be a paralegal or assistant present for the purpose of taking notes. Ask the attorney you meet if he or she will be the person handling your case. If not, request to meet the attorney who will be representing you.
The Purpose of the Meeting
The purpose of the first meeting with a personal injury lawyer is for the attorney to hear the facts of your case. This will allow the attorney to know whether he or she can proceed with a legal cause of action on your behalf. The initial meeting will also explain the key points of the legal process, as well as determine what role you will pay in the case. For instance, your lawyer may explain the importance of following your physician’s treatment plan.
What to Bring
You may bring specific documents with you to your first meeting with a personal injury lawyer to give him or her more information about the case. This is not mandatory; however, it can make it easier for the attorney to understand whether you have grounds for a personal injury lawsuit. It can also make the legal process more efficient should the lawyer choose to offer his or her services. Bring documents related to your accident and injuries, including photographs, medical records, pay stubs, a police report, eyewitness statements, and your insurance policy.
How Long the Meeting Will Last
This largely depends on your case. If your case is particularly complex, it may take longer for the personal injury lawyer to understand its elements and explain relevant legal doctrines. The same is true if you suffered severe or life-changing injuries due to your accident. However, if your case is straightforward, the consultation may not last long at all. A typical initial consultation lasts about one hour.
Questions You Should Ask
The first meeting with a Houston personal injury lawyer is a fact-finding mission for both you and the attorney. You need to come prepared with a list of questions to ask the attorney about your case and your legal rights. Some key questions may include, “Do I have a case?” and “How Much is my case worth?” The information collected during your meeting should allow you to better understand the basic facts of your case and if you have grounds for a personal injury claim.
What to Look for in Your Houston Personal Injury Attorney
You should also ask questions related to the attorney and his or her prior experience. These questions are intended to judge whether the lawyer is a good fit for you and your personal injury claim. Ask about the attorney’s experience and practice area, as well as case results achieved.
Personal Injury Lawyer in Houston
The attorneys at West Loop Law and the Law Office of Nhan Nguyen, MD, JD have years of experience representing accident victims across the state of Texas. It is our goal to provide our clients with the best legal representation available. Our experienced Houston car wreck lawyers are dedicated to defending your rights in personal injury matters, in cases related to defective products, recalled drugs, child injuries, and car crashes.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident, contact our offices immediately at 713-840-7200 to see what we can do for you.
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