Most people wait until they're hurt and panicked to pick a lawyer. That's a mistake. You need to do this with a clear head, not when you're in pain and fielding calls from ambulance chasers.
Licensing & Insurance Questions
First thing: make sure they're actually licensed in your state. Look up their bar number on the state bar website. It takes two minutes. Then ask if they carry malpractice insurance. Some states don't require it. If they don't have it, walk. You want someone who can actually pay you if they screw up your case. Also ask if they have liability insurance for their office. If a paralegal drops your medical records in a puddle, you want coverage for the mess.
Experience & References Questions
Don't ask how many cases they've won. Ask how many similar cases they've taken to trial. Most settle, but you need to know they'll fight if the offer stinks. Ask for three references from clients with cases like yours. Call them. Real clients will tell you if the lawyer returned calls or left you hanging. Also ask if they've handled cases against the specific insurance company you're dealing with. Some carriers are nightmares. You want someone who knows their playbook.
Pricing & Timeline Questions
Get the fee structure in writing before you sign anything. Most work on contingency, meaning they take a percentage if you win. But percentages vary, and some add costs on top. Ask what happens if you lose. Do you owe anything for their expenses? Ask for a realistic timeline. Most injury cases take months, not weeks. If they promise a quick payday, that's a red flag. Ask how often they update clients. Weekly? Monthly? Only when they want something? Set that expectation early.
Contract Questions
Read the whole contract. Yes, every line. Look for hidden fees: filing costs, expert witness fees, copying charges. Some contracts let the lawyer withdraw if the case gets hard. You don't want that. Check if you can fire them and what happens to your file. You should own your medical records and evidence, not them. Also look for a clause about who picks the settlement. You should have final say. If the contract says they decide, don't sign.
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