Top Five Questions to Ask Before Hiring an Orange County Personal Injury Attorney

There are many attorneys capable of handling a Southern California accident claim. But, it is imperative that the attorney you hire is someone who will seek the maximum compensation for your claim aggressively, while also giving you the personal attention you deserve.

To help you find the right attorney for your case, the lawyers at Russell & Lazarus have made a list of the top five questions you should ask each attorney you interview. Remember not to sign any attorney-client fee agreements without first seeking answers to these questions:

• Do you provide complimentary case evaluations?

A free consultation should involve more than a quick sit-down to discuss the accident. The lawyer should provide you with a comprehensive explanation of all your available options and what each option would entail.

• Will I have to provide you with my accident report, medical records, and bills, or will you gather that information for me?

When injured in a serious accident in Orange County, the only thing you want to focus on is your recovery, not on running around town to gather evidence for your claim.

• Will I still have to take all of the calls from the at-fault party’s insurance adjustor?

A practiced attorney will ensure that all correspondence from the insurance company will cease. The lawyer should inform the company to contact the firm from the moment you sign your fee agreement. This includes all mail, email and telephone calls.

• If I have a question for my attorney, will I be able to speak with him?

Most firms hire paralegals whom can answer many of your questions and provide the best possible service to you and your family. There are times, however, when you want to speak directly with your attorney, and you should have the right and ability to do so.

• What happens if I do not obtain a settlement or win at trial?

Deciding to take on a personal injury claim is a risk for both the client and the attorney. It is the attorney’s job, however, to weigh that risk against a potential settlement before he or she takes you on as a client. Any lawyer you hire should work on a contingency fee basis, meaning that you only pay if the lawyer is successful with your case.

To learn more about questions to ask to find a good lawyer, contact the Riverside County car accident attorneys at Russell & Lazarus by calling at 949.851.0222 or by filling out our online form.