Ask the right questions before hiring an accident lawyer!

Here is a list of important questions to ask an accident lawyer
during an interview. Consider them a starting point, but by all means ask more questions if you need to. The object is to find out as much information as possible and establish a line of trust.

Some good questions include:

• What are your areas of specialization?
• Do you have a consultation fee? If so, what is it?
• Have you handled cases like mine before? How many? How many have you won?
• Will you be the only attorney who works on the case? If not, who else will work on it?
• How long do you think it will it take for this case to be resolved?
• How much will my case cost? Would you consider taking my case on contingency?
• What can I do to assist in the case and to help reduce the cost?
• Is there anything you suggest I do to build a stronger case?
• How will you keep me notified about the progress of my case?
• If I have questions about my case and need to contact you, what are the best times?
• Can I reach you on your cell phone or pager?
• If you are unavailable or on vacation, who can I speak to about my
  case?
• Can I reach you after hours if I have an emergency?
• How often do you go to trial?
• What is the ratio of cases you take to trial and ones you settle out of court?
• If I am not happy with a settlement offer, are you willing to go to
  bat at trial regardless of how you feel about my decision?
• If I am happy with a settlement offer, but you think we can win more at trial, will you follow my wishes?
• Have you ever been disciplined by an ethics committee, or been
  suspended from the practice of law? If so, why? (NOTE: This
  information is also available on most state bar association websites.
  California's State Bar website address is: calbar.ca.gov Click
  on "Attorney search" on homepage, then type in the name of an
  attorney. If the attorney's name is listed, click on it. A screen
  will then pop up displaying information about the status of the
  attorney's bar card, education and record of discipline, if there
  has been any)
• What "continuing legal education" courses have you attended during
  the past few years?

Please note that, as desirable as references may be, it is not always
possible for attorneys to give references from past clients due to
attorney-client confidentiality. However, you may wish to ask for
references from other attorneys.


Should I ask for a written retainer agreement?

Yes. A written retainer agreement is the best way to ensure that your
rights are protected. Don't feel that you have to sign the agreement
on the spot -- take the time to read it first, then ask questions
about it if you have questions. If you are looking to pay thousands
of dollars in fees, you may even wish to have the agreement reviewed
by another attorney before signing it. The retainer agreement should
accurately describe the legal issues for which the attorney will
represent you, the amount that you will pay the attorney, and any
other terms you discuss.