Choosing the right personal injury lawyer is one of the most important decisions you can make after an accident. The attorney you hire will handle negotiations, communicate with insurance companies, gather evidence, and fight for the compensation you deserve. Not all injury attorneys offer the same level of experience or client support, so your free consultation is the best time to evaluate whether the lawyer is the right fit for your case.
At Chaz Roberts Law, we know what it takes to be a supportive personal injury attorney. We have gathered the top five questions to ask your personal injury attorney during your free consultation and why each one matters.
1. What Is Your Experience With Cases Like Mine?
Experience is one of the most important things to look for in a personal injury lawyer. Personal injury law includes many types of cases, and you want an attorney who has handled claims similar to yours many times before.
Types of Injury Cases Handled
Ask the attorney what types of cases they regularly accept, such as:
- Car, truck, or motorcycle accidents
- Slip and fall or premises liability cases
- Workplace accidents
- Wrongful death cases
- Defective product injuries
Attorneys familiar with cases like yours can build a stronger strategy from the start.
Track Record of Results
It is appropriate to ask for examples of past settlements or verdicts. While no attorney can guarantee a result, a history of successful outcomes shows skill in negotiation and litigation.
Connections with Local Doctors and Courts
Experienced injury lawyers often work closely with:
- Local medical providers
- Accident reconstruction experts
- Investigators
- Court personnel
These relationships help strengthen your case and support your claim with credible evidence. A good personal injury attorney will have a solid contact list of experts to contact to help your case. If they can’t bring in the experts, or they don’t have the right court connections, they might not be the right attorney for you.
2. How Will You Communicate With Me Throughout My Case?
Clear communication is essential in a personal injury case. Many clients say their biggest frustration with past attorneys was not receiving updates.
During the consultation, consider asking:
- How often will I be updated on my case?
- Who will contact me, the attorney, a paralegal, or another team member?
- What method of communication will be used, phone, email?
- How quickly are messages and calls returned?
You deserve an attorney who is accessible and committed to keeping you informed. A communicative law firm, like Chaz Roberts Law, will have a solid communication policy in place to better position the attorneys to help you.
3. What Is Your Fee Structure, and Are There Upfront Costs?
Before signing any paperwork, make sure you understand how the attorney will be paid.
Contingency Fees vs. Hourly Billing
Most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee. This means:
- No upfront charges
- The attorney is paid only if the case is successful
- The fee is a percentage of the settlement or verdict
Ask about the specific percentage and whether it increases if the case goes to trial. At Chaz Roberts law, we operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning we won’t collect if we don’t win your case.
Who Covers Costs if the Case is Lost?
Some cases involve expenses such as medical record fees, expert witness costs, or court fees. Ask whether the firm pays these expenses during the case and what happens if the case does not succeed.
Written Fee Agreements
Always request a written agreement outlining:
- The percentage charged
- How expenses are handled
- When payment is due
A clear agreement protects both you and your attorney.
4. What Is My Case Potential Worth, and What Outcomes Can I Expect?
Although no lawyer can guarantee a specific dollar amount, a knowledgeable attorney can explain which factors affect your claim and provide a reasonable estimate based on experience.
Types of Damages Available
You may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical bills
- Future medical needs
- Lost wages
- Reduced ability to work
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Permanent or long term injuries
A knowledgeable attorney will explain how insurance companies evaluate these losses and what challenges may arise in your case while accounting for extenuating circumstances like a catastrophic injury or disability that will require more compensation.
5. Who Will Actually Handle My Case?
Some firms assign cases to junior attorneys or staff members after the consultation. You should know exactly who is responsible for your representation.
Ask questions such as:
- Will the attorney you meet with be the person handling your case?
- Will additional team members be involved?
- How experienced each person is?
- Can you contact your attorney directly?
The attorney client relationship is built on clarity and trust, so these details matter.
Reach Out to Chaz Roberts Law with Any Personal Injury Questions
A free consultation is your opportunity to learn about your legal options, ask questions, and decide whether the attorney is the right fit. When you know what to look for in a personal injury lawyer, you can make a confident and informed choice.
At Chaz Roberts Law, we believe in communication, transparency, and client centered representation while fighting for our clients in Louisiana and the Lafayette area. We take the time to answer your questions, explain your options, and provide guidance from the beginning to the end of your case. Our team is committed to protecting your rights and helping you pursue the compensation you deserve.
If you were injured because of someone else’s negligence, contact us today at (337) 504-3202 to schedule your free, confidential consultation.
