Are you preparing to meet with a personal injury attorney after your accident? This can be a nerve-racking experience, as most people who seek out legal counsel have never worked with one before. However, most injury attorneys offer free consultations and are happy to provide you with information and assistance during that appointment.
Below are some things you can do to best prepare for that meeting:
- Gather important information and documents: Bring documents and information like photos of the accident site, police reports, traffic citations, names and contact information of witnesses, information about your insurance adjuster and the insurance policy, names and contact information of other parties involved. You should also have information about your healthcare provider, medical bills for treatments received, proof of lost earnings and any other records helpful to your case.
- Create a log of the facts: Your lawyer will ask you numerous questions about your claim. You can prepare yourself by writing down a firm timeline of the facts of the case as you remember them. Consider the events, the treatment you received, specific pain you experienced and your medical history.
- Bring questions for your attorney: There will probably be more information you want from your attorney, so don’t be shy about asking questions. Jot down these questions ahead of time so you don’t forget any of them. They might include information regarding your lawyer’s background and experience, what else the attorney needs from you before proceeding with the case, the chances of getting a settlement and the strengths and weaknesses of your case.
- Manage your expectations: A good attorney will not attempt to give you a firm estimate of the value of your case at an initial meeting. This will require an in-depth look at all the facts of your case.
For more tips on how to handle an initial consultation with your legal counsel, contact a respected Bradenton personal injury lawyer with Goldman, Babboni, Fernandez, Murphy & Walsh.