A free consultation is your chance to interview a lawyer, not just their chance to evaluate your case. Bring these questions and take notes. The answers, and how clearly they’re given, will tell you a lot.
Before the consultation
Bring what you have: the police or incident report, photos, medical records and bills, insurance letters and any notes you’ve kept. Don’t worry if you don’t have everything.
Questions about experience
- How long have you practiced personal injury law?
- What percentage of your cases are personal injury?
- Do you represent injured people only, or insurance companies too?
- How many cases like mine have you handled in the last few years?
- Have you taken cases like mine to trial?
Questions about your case
- What are the strengths and weaknesses of my case?
- What’s my deadline to file a lawsuit? (See the statute of limitations by state.)
- Could I be found partly at fault, and how would that affect my case? (See comparative fault.)
- What evidence do we still need?
- How long do cases like mine usually take?
Be wary of anyone who promises a specific dollar amount at the first meeting. Good lawyers explain what drives value instead. See what is my claim worth?
Questions about fees and costs
- Do you work on contingency? What percentage?
- Does the percentage change if the case goes to trial?
- What case costs should I expect, and who pays them if we lose?
- Are costs taken out before or after your fee?
- Can I have the fee agreement in writing to review?
Learn more in how contingency fees work.
Questions about communication
- Who will handle my case day to day: you, another lawyer or a paralegal?
- How often will I get updates?
- What’s the best way to reach you, and how quickly do you respond?
- Will you ask for my approval before accepting or rejecting a settlement offer?
Questions about the process
- What do you need from me to move forward?
- Should I keep seeing my doctors and following treatment? (The answer should be yes.)
- What should I avoid doing, such as posting on social media or talking to insurers?
After the consultation
Ask yourself:
- Did they explain things in plain language?
- Did they listen, or rush me?
- Did I feel pressured to sign today?
- Do I know exactly who I’ll be working with?
It’s normal to meet with two or three lawyers before deciding. See how to choose a personal injury lawyer.
Printable question list
- What percentage of your practice is personal injury?
- How many cases like mine have you handled?
- Have you taken cases like mine to trial?
- What are my case’s strengths and weaknesses?
- What’s my filing deadline?
- What’s your contingency percentage? Does it change at trial?
- How are case costs handled if we win, and if we lose?
- Who will handle my case day to day?
- How often will I get updates, and how fast do you respond?
- Will you get my approval before settling?
Find a hand-selected injury attorney in your city →
Frequently asked questions
How long is a personal injury consultation?
Usually 20 minutes to an hour, depending on the case. Many firms offer consultations by phone or video.
Should I sign at the first meeting?
Only if you're comfortable. A good lawyer will give you time to review the agreement. Be cautious of pressure to sign immediately.
What if the lawyer won't take my case?
It doesn't always mean you don't have a claim. The case may be outside their focus. Ask if they can suggest another type of lawyer, and get a second opinion.
Is what I tell a lawyer at a consultation confidential?
Generally yes. Conversations with a lawyer during a consultation are typically protected, even if you don't hire them.
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Laws change and every case is different. Talk to a licensed attorney about your situation.