During a free legal consultation, the attorney-client privilege protects what you say to a lawyer. You are free to share whatever information you feel is necessary for the lawyer to carefully examine your case. Even if you decide not to hire that lawyer, the information you provided at that meeting will remain private and protected.
This guide will take a look at some things you should plan for when meeting with a Houston personal injury attorney for the first time.
Have Questions Ready
Bring any questions you want to have answered during the session. Your consultation is the time to ask for all of the information you need in order to make a decision whether or not that lawyer is a good fit for your needs. Your questions are always appreciated, and we will try our best to give you a detailed response.
Some examples of appropriate questions you may want to ask include:
- How long have you been practicing law?
- Do you have any prior experience with cases like this?
- In a case like mine, what is the typical range for damages?
- What is your fee structure?
- What are some possible outcomes for my case?
- Can you tell me about your experience with cases like mine?
- Do you usually settle your cases or do you take them to trial?
You can better remember to ask these questions by writing them down prior to the consultation.
Be Ready to Answer Questions
The consultation is an opportunity for the lawyer to learn more about your case by asking questions. You should be prepared to answer extensive questions regarding the facts surrounding your injuries, including whether you may have contributed to the negligence that led to your injury.
You should be open and honest with the attorney so that he or she can give you an early assessment of whether or not you have grounds for a case. Texas is a comparative negligence state. That means you cannot be compensated if you are more than 50% to blame for the accident.
Bring Relevant Documentation
Bring in documents and other materials pertinent to your case to make the most of your free legal consultation.
Relevant documentation may include:
- Photo or video evidence
- Insurance Information
- Medical records
- Witness reports
- Accident reports
- Contracts
Bringing all of these documents to your initial consultation will give the auto accident attorney in Houston all of the information he or she needs to decide whether or not he or she will represent you. It will also supply them with the information they need to determine the likely outcomes in your case.
Be Honest and Open
One of the main reasons for meeting with the lawyer in person is to assess your level of comfort during the initial consultation. You want an attorney with whom you feel comfortable around and can communicate openly and honestly.
We understand that personal injuries can be difficult to talk about. If you don’t feel like sharing potentially embarrassing or delicate information about your body and injury, you won’t be able to get the level of legal representation you deserve. A strong lawyer-client relationship is critical to the success of your case.
Listen and Take Notes
Even if you do not hire the attorney you are interviewing, there is still a lot that you can learn. During the consultation, take comprehensive notes on what you like and dislike about the attorney, any viewpoints he or she presents on your case, and any issues you want to explore with them.
You want to make sure you have all you need before deciding whether or not to hire the attorney.
Ask About Fees
The costs associated with pursuing an injury claim are important. Make sure to ask questions about the price structure and court charges. The majority of personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. That means you don’t have to pay anything until they win your case.
Can the Attorney Take My Case Immediately?
Make sure to ask if the attorney will be able to start working on your case right away during your session. This is critical because the sooner they can get started on your case the more time they will have to reach a successful outcome.
Houston Personal Injury Attorneys
West Loop Law and the Law Office of Nhan Nguyen, MD, JD can conduct an investigation into your accident and assist you in obtaining evidence to demonstrate the extent of your injuries. Your Houston car crash lawyer will set up appointments with claims adjusters and assist you at every level of your case in order to obtain the highest potential settlement amount, including gathering evidence to show that the other driver is responsible.
Nhan Nguyen, MD, JD and Nader Rabie, JD are here to help you make a complete recovery after a severe car accident.
Contact West Loop Law and the Law Office of Nhan Nguyen, MD, JD immediately at (713) 840-7200 to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation if you or a loved one has been unfairly injured in a traffic accident.
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