What to Ask Before Hiring a Slip and Fall Attorney

Navigating the aftermath of a slip and fall accident is, undoubtedly, a daunting experience for any victim. Medical bills pile up while lost wages add to the stress, not to mention the physical pain caused by your injury.

At a time when you’re at your lowest point, you need a competent, reliable, and seasoned slip and fall attorney by your side. But how can you ensure that you’re entrusting your case to the right professional?

That’s where the right set of questions comes in. Below, we’ve compiled a list of the most crucial questions you should ask before hiring a slip and fall attorney.

1. What’s Your Experience with Slip and Fall Cases?

First things first—every legal niche has its own intricacies, and premises liability cases are certainly no exception. An attorney might have decades of experience but little to no exposure to cases like yours.

Hence the reason why you should always ask about any potential attorney’s experience handling slip and fall cases and why you should also request examples of previous successful outcomes.

2. Have You Taken Slip and Fall Cases to Trial?

While many personal injury cases are settled outside court, it’s important to hire a slip and fall attorney who has trial experience. Why?

In the event that your slip and fall accident case goes to trial, you want an attorney who can confidently and effectively argue your case in court, not one who’s learning on the job. Just as you wouldn’t want an intern performing open-heart surgery on you, it’s best to leave your case to a seasoned veteran of the law.

3. How Much Time Can You Devote to My Slip and Fall Case?

Slip and fall accident cases demand time and attention, so ensure your case won’t just be another file in the pile. Just because a law firm has the biggest and baddest reputation in town doesn’t necessarily mean they have the time or motivation to prioritize your case first.

While it’s unrealistic to expect your attorney to dedicate every hour to your case alone, any potential lawyer you consider hiring should assure you that they can give your slip and fall case the time and focus it deserves.

4. What’s Your Fee Structure?

When it comes to personal injury attorneys, many work on a contingency fee basis. This means that they only receive a payment if you win your case, and it’s also why clarifying the percentage they’ll take is essential. Additionally, you should also ask them about any other costs or fees that may be involved in your slip and fall case.

5. What is Your Initial Evaluation of My Slip and Fall Case?

While no attorney can guarantee a specific outcome, they should be able to give you a frank and honest assessment of your slip and fall case based on their experience. Understanding the potential challenges and strengths of your slip and fall case will help set realistic expectations.

6. How Will Communication Work During My Case?

Efficient and transparent communication is vital in any attorney-client relationship. Ask about their communication style, frequency of updates, and their policy on returning phone calls or emails. You should feel comfortable and confident in their commitment to keep you informed about your slip and fall case.

7. Can You Provide References from Other Slip and Fall Cases?

Good slip and fall attorneys usually have a list of satisfied clients who are willing to vouch for them— don’t hesitate to ask for references. Speaking with past clients can provide valuable insights into how the attorney handles slip and fall cases and interacts with clients.

Conclusion

Remember, your goal shouldn’t simply be to hire an attorney— you should also be concerned with forming a legal team that’s dedicated to securing the justice and compensation you deserve.

Take your time, do your research, ask these essential questions, and make an informed decision. Your recovery— both physical and financial— could depend on it.