Were you injured by another person’s negligent actions or inactions? Are you considering a legal claim but are unsure if you may have a case? Can you afford an attorney, and how do you find the right one to represent you?
Greg Coleman Law discusses questions to ask in a free legal consultation to help you find an attorney who will listen to your concerns, answer your questions and provide the legal guidance you need.
Our experienced personal injury lawyers in Knoxville are prepared to help if you were injured by another person’s negligence. Call our firm to learn if you may have a case – at no cost or obligation to you.
What is a Free Legal Consultation?
Attorneys offer a free legal consultation, in part, to assess whether you may have a case they can win. This saves you and them time and money if your claim is either not valid or not strong enough. That said, this free case review, which is protected by attorney-client privilege, also:
- Is an easy and risk-free way to learn whether or not you may have a valid case
- Provides a free and confidential opportunity to get answers to your legal questions
- Helps you to find out if you feel comfortable with the firm and/or lawyer
At the end of this meeting, even if we determine you may have a case, you are not obligated to take things any further. Regardless of the reason, you can walk away after this meeting – at no cost or risk to you.
What Should You Ask in a Free Legal Consultation?
Personal injury claims are unique, which is why they can often become complicated. But no one likes being in the dark, especially if it will impact them personally. For this reason, understanding the flow of a case and what you can expect from the process is important.
We strongly recommend you bring a notebook and write down your questions in advance to help you remember them. Here are some of the most common areas we get asked about:
Costs and Fees
Many people may think that costs and fees are the same, however, they refer to two different areas in a legal claim. Costs in a legal claim refer to the monies provided to manage your claim up front. Examples may include the administrative expense to get your medical records or order a copy of your police report. Fees are what you pay for the legal expertise and knowledge of a qualified attorney. Your lawyer is required to explain all costs and fees clearly before you sign anything.
Other important questions related to the costs of a personal injury claim include:
- What is the value of my case?
- Are there upfront costs?
- Are there extra costs if my case ends up in court?
- What costs will I owe if my attorney does not win my case?
- What are the attorney fees?
- When and how do I pay?
Most personal injury lawyers operate on a contingency fee basis. Accepting payment in this way helps injured victims to be able to hold negligent parties accountable without paying any money up front. Make sure you understand the costs and fees a prospective law firm will charge you – and when. Getting this information ahead of time can help you to pick the right attorney for your legal needs and your budget.
The Legal Process
It is difficult to understand how the legal process works when it is not something you have to deal with every day. A qualified attorney should be able to answer your questions clearly – without all the legal jargon – so you can understand what to expect if you pursue a claim.
For example:
- How long could it take before my case concludes?
- How often does this type of case end up in court?
- What happens if my case goes to trial?
Ask Questions About the Firm and the Lawyer
Having a lawyer handle every aspect of your case helps to ensure your best interests are protected throughout the legal process. However, it is still a good idea to interview a lawyer to make sure you can have confidence in his or her abilities.
Some questions that may help you decide on an attorney, include:
- Who is the lawyer who will handle my case?
- Has the lawyer handled many cases like mine before?
- If so, what kind of success or outcome did the lawyer have?
- Is the lawyer prepared to go to trial on my behalf if necessary?
Ask About Your Role
If you have a valid case and you find a qualified attorney, you still play a role in the outcome of your case. Your attorney will guide you in this and explain the things that can have a positive or negative impact on the outcome, such as:
- Is there anything I need to do to protect my claim?
- Are there activities I should avoid during the legal process?
- What do I need to do to keep my case moving forward?
- Are there any appointments or meetings I need to attend?
- What happens if I miss doctor, physical therapy or other appointments?
If your attorney gives you guidance and legal advice, it is for a reason. Whether you are asked to avoid posting on social media or to follow-up with your treating physician, it is important that you follow his or her advice. Choosing to ignore your attorney’s legal counsel could result in you receiving a smaller compensation at the end of your case.
Have Legal Questions? Our Firm is Prepared to Answer Them
Injured by a negligent homeowner or careless driver? Do you have injuries and other damages? Call our firm to find out if you may have a case in the completely free consultation we offer.
Meet with one of the qualified lawyers at Greg Coleman Law to get answers to your legal questions. If you choose to hire our services – you can do so without paying any fees or costs up front. We get paid only when your case concludes, and only if we obtain compensation for you.
Millions Recovered. Call today: (865) 247-0080
