Wrongful death lawsuits are complex and can be challenging to navigate. You want to ascertain that you have the best possible representation on your side. If you or your loved one has lost a family member due to negligence, you must understand their options before speaking with an attorney. When choosing a wrongful death attorney, you should ask these ten questions.
- What Type Of Success Have You Previously Had With Similar Cases?
Make sure to ask your potential attorney about their experience with similar cases. How many have they taken on? What was the outcome of those cases? While you cannot guarantee a favorable outcome, an expert attorney will better understand what to expect and how to begin fighting your case.
- How Much Expertise Do You Have With Trials?
The majority of cases don’t go to trial. In some instances, insurance companies will reach a fair settlement without ever going before a jury. However, if you have to take your case to trial, you want an experienced lawyer capable of handling the stress and challenges of trying a case in front of a judge and jury.
- What Is Your Track Record With Settlement Negotiations?
Again, most cases settle out of court. And while you want a wrongful death lawyer who is prepared to go to trial if necessary, you also want someone skilled in negotiation who can get you the best possible settlement. Ask your potential attorney about their experience negotiating settlements and what kind of success they’ve had in the past.
- What Is Your Fee Structure?
Many personal injury attorneys function on a contingency fee basis, which means they only get paid if you win your case. If you receive a settlement or verdict, they will take a percentage of that amount as their fee. Make sure you know the fee breakdown before hiring them, so there are no surprises down the road.
These can include court filing fees, expert witness fees, and other expenses incurred as the case progresses. Your wrongful death attorney should be upfront about their fees, so there are no surprises at the end of your case.
- What Is A Typical Settlement Or Verdict In This Type Of Case?
When discussing the cost of hiring an attorney, they will likely discuss factors like contingency fees, court costs, and other expenses that are common to these types of cases. But you will also want to know about typical settlements or verdicts in these cases so you have a better idea of what to expect as your case moves forward.
- How Long Does a Typical Case Take To Resolve?
You’ll also have questions about how long your personal injury case will take. Even though these types of cases can be complex, a skilled attorney should still be able to give you an estimated timeframe for when they expect your case to be resolved.
- What Is The Size Of Your Firm?
The size of your law firm is also important to consider. If you have a complex case, you’ll want to ensure that the firm has the resources necessary to devote to your case. Larger firms will likely have more staff and resources available, which can be helpful in these types of cases.
- What Kind Of Support Can You Provide?
While your attorney will be handling all the legal aspects of your case, you will still want to support that person. Make sure that you ask about the support they can provide to know what’s expected on your end throughout this process. For example, if you need help finding medical records or gathering evidence, your attorney should be able to provide or connect you with the appropriate resources.
- How Do You Communicate?
Finally, make sure that you feel comfortable and confident working with your attorney. Be clear about how they prefer to communicate—email, phone calls, in-person meetings—and what types of information they need from you to move your case forward.
- Is Your Firm Available 24/7?
If you need to contact your wrongful death attorney in an emergency, will they be available? You’ll want a responsive attorney and easy to reach when needed. Make sure that you find out the procedure for getting in touch if your case requires urgent attention, so there are no surprises later on.
So if you’re ready to hire an attorney, keep these ten questions in mind. These will help you find the best possible attorney for your case and ensure that you are prepared for what lies ahead.