Six Questions to Ask a Personal Injury Lawyer During a Free Consultation

When you’re injured in an accident—whether from a car crash, slip and fall, or workplace incident—finding the right personal injury firm can make a big difference in your recovery. 

Most personal injury law firms in Wisconsin offer free consultations, allowing you to ask questions and decide if the attorney is a good fit for your case. 

This guide will walk you through six important questions to ask during that first meeting. These questions will help you understand the lawyer’s experience, how they handle cases, and what to expect moving forward.

1. What Is Your Experience with Cases Like Mine?

Not all personal injury cases are the same. If you were hurt in a car accident, for example, you’ll want a lawyer who has handled many auto accident cases. The same goes for injuries from dog bites, medical malpractice, or workplace accidents.

Potential questions to ask:

• How many cases like mine have you handled?
• Have you taken similar cases to trial?
• What were the outcomes of those cases?

A lawyer with experience in cases like yours will likely better understand the legal process, insurance company tactics, and how to build a strong case. Their knowledge of your case’s specific practice area can increase your chances of getting fair compensation. Choosing a lawyer with relevant experience ensures they probably understand the specifics of your case type.

2. What Challenges Do You See in My Case?

Every personal injury case has its strengths and weaknesses. An honest lawyer will point out potential problems early on. 

Examples of weaknesses in a case might include:

• Difficulty proving who was at fault
• Lack of strong evidence or witnesses
• Pre-existing medical conditions that could complicate your claim

Potential questions to ask:

• What are the weaknesses in my case?
• How can we address or overcome them?

Understanding your case’s challenges helps you prepare for what lies ahead and gives you a realistic view of your case’s potential. Early awareness of possible hurdles allows you and your lawyer to strategize effectively.

3. How Do You Charge for Your Services?

Most personal injury lawyers in Wisconsin work on a contingency fee basis. This means you don’t pay any legal fees upfront. Instead, the lawyer takes a percentage of the money you receive from a settlement or court award.

Potential questions to ask:

• What percentage do you charge if we settle?
• Does the percentage change if we go to trial?
• Will I be responsible for any costs if we lose?

Some lawyers may charge 33% if the case settles and up to 40% if it goes to trial. You should also ask about other costs, such as filing fees, expert witnesses, or medical records. 

Wisconsin requires a written contingency fee agreement in some cases. One benefit of having an agreement in writing is that everyone will have a better understanding of who pays these costs and when. Clarifying fees and costs upfront prevents surprises later on.

4. Will You Personally Handle My Case?

In some law firms, the lawyer you meet during the consultation may not be the one who handles your case. Instead, your case might be passed to another attorney or a paralegal.

Potential questions to ask:

• Will you be the primary attorney working on my case?
• If not, who will be?
• Can I meet the team who will be involved?

It’s important to know who will be responsible for your case and how much experience they have. You want to feel confident that your case is in good hands. Ensuring the right person handles your case builds trust and confidence.

5. How Will You Keep Me Informed About My Case?

Good communication is key to a successful attorney-client relationship. You should know how often you’ll receive updates and who to contact with questions.

Potential questions to ask:

• How often will I receive updates?
• Will I communicate directly with you or someone else?
• What’s the best way to reach you—phone, email, or in-person meetings?

Some clients prefer frequent updates, while others only want to be contacted when something significant happens. Make sure your lawyer’s communication style matches your preferences. Establishing clear communication expectations helps avoid misunderstandings.

6. What Is My Case Worth and How Long Will It Take?

While no lawyer can guarantee a specific outcome, an experienced attorney can give you an idea of what your case might be worth and how long it could take to resolve.

Potential questions to ask:

• Based on your experience, what is a possible range for my settlement?
• How long do cases like mine usually take to settle or go to trial?
• What factors could speed up or delay the process?

Understanding the potential value and timeline of your case helps set realistic expectations and allows you to plan accordingly. Having a general idea of the case’s worth and duration aids in your decision-making.

Contact Our Madison Personal Injury Lawyer for a Free Consultation

Meeting with a personal injury attorney for a free consultation allows you to gather information and decide if they’re the right fit for your case. By asking these six questions, you’ll gain insight into their experience, approach, and how they handle cases. 

This knowledge will help you make an informed decision and increase your chances of a successful outcome. Remember, the right lawyer will be transparent, communicative, and dedicated to achieving the best possible result for you. Schedule a free consultation today with Eisenberg Law Offices, S.C by calling at (608) 256-8356.