Personal injury lawyers typically offer prospective clients the ability to get a free consultation. This consultation provides the perfect opportunity for the lawyer to review the facts of the case and provides the client with the opportunity to ask any questions they may have regarding the next steps in the claims process. However, like most consultations, these free services will often have a time limit. This is why it is important for individuals to go into these meetings well prepared if they hope to make the most of the time they do have available. Completing the three steps below before your consultation with a personal injury lawyer can help you to accomplish this task.
Make Sure You Complete Any Questionnaires Supplied By The Attorney
Many personal injury lawyers will send out a questionnaire to prospective clients prior to the date of their initial meeting. This questionnaire is designed to provide the attorney with basic information regarding both the client and their claim. Completing and returning this document prior to the date of your consultation will prove beneficial in a variety of ways.
First, responding promptly will give the lawyer adequate time to review your answers and prepare for your meeting. Second, a prompt response will prevent the attorney from needing to use valuable time during your consultation to collect this basic information from you. Finally, taking the time to complete this paperwork ahead of time will ensure the lawyer is able to provide you with case-specific answers to your own questions since they will be familiar with the facts in your case.
Compile As Much Documentation As Possible Regarding Your Claim
Providing your version of events is helpful; however, providing documentation regarding your accident and injuries will prove far more beneficial. This documentation really allows the attorney to determine the value of your case and identify any issues which may arise during the claims process. All of this information will likely be factored into whether or not a personal injury attorney ultimately chooses to offer their services to you. Having this documentation on hand during your initial consultation can help to save valuable time and provide corroboration for your version of the events that resulted in you being injured.
Have A Written List Of Questions You Wish To Ask
Choosing to wing it when attending a consultation with a personal injury lawyer is a bit like heading to the grocery store without a shopping list in hand. There is a good chance you are going to end up forgetting at least one thing. Taking the time to write down all of your questions will ensure that you do not forget any of the important questions that you need answers to.
Contact a law firm like Yakov Mushiyev & Associates PC to learn more.