How Should I Prepare for My Free Consultation With a Car Accident Lawyer?
Published: Nov 14, 2023 in Auto Accident, Personal Injury
A free consultation with a car accident lawyer can be informative and enlightening without a significant upfront investment. Yet, it is vital to make the most of this time; the key is to be prepared.
Once the introductions have been made, the car accident lawyer will ask many questions, and you will have the opportunity to describe what happened in detail. They will explain the merits of your claim and discuss your legal options. If they agree to take the case and you are on board with working with them, the next stage will be reading over and signing a contingency fee agreement and other documents.
You can assemble a list of questions, considering that others will likely come to mind when you talk. These can serve as a guideline:
- Do you focus on car accident law?
- Have you handled similar cases to mine? How many?
- How long have you been a lawyer?
- How long would my case take to resolve?
- What were the results of these similar cases?
- What is your firm’s contingency agreement like?
The lawyer might ask more detailed questions if you feel comfortable during the conversation. They will want as much information as possible, so organize what you have beforehand. Have the following at hand:
- Eyewitness statements/eyewitness contact information
- Medical records about your injuries, including tests and scans
- Photographs of your and the other driver’s license, license plate, insurance card, and registration
- Police and accident reports
- Tickets or citations
It is also wise to keep a journal of the accident’s aftermath. Write down details when things happen or as soon as possible afterward; it is easy to forget things, especially if you are seriously injured.
Why Does the Lawyer Need So Much Information?
Personal injury cases revolve around the strength of evidence; the more, the better. You can help your lawyer by providing all the information available because it will aid them with determining your potential for compensation.
Contact a Belleville Car Accident Lawyer at The Cates Law Firm for a Free Consultation
At The Cates Law Firm, you can discuss your case with a skilled Belleville car accident lawyer who can answer all your questions and fight to protect your rights. To learn more, call 618-277-3644 or complete our online form to schedule a free consultation. Located in Swansea, Illinois, we serve clients in St. Louis, Belleville, East St. Louis, Edwardsville, Granite City, Waterloo, Chester, Carbondale, St. Clair County, Madison County, Monroe County, Randolph County, and other regions throughout Southern Illinois.