According to The National Library of Medicine, brain injury contributes more to death and disability globally than any other traumatic incident. Suffering a brain injury can be life-altering, making it crucial to hire the right brain injury lawyer. The legal process is complex despite the head injury resulting from an auto accident, car crash or medical malpractice and the attorney you choose can significantly impact your compensation and recovery.
Surviving a brain injury is hard enough, but neglecting post-injury care can lead to serious long-term complications. Factors like post injury care and medical expenses can leave families of victims frustrated, which makes it even more important to win. Here are 15 essential questions to ask before hiring a brain injury lawyer to handle your case so you can make a well informed decision.
1. How Long Have You Been Practicing Personal Injury Law?
Experience matters in brain injury cases. A lawyer practicing personal injury law for years will better navigate the legal process, negotiate with insurance companies, and secure compensation. Ask about their years in practice, case outcomes, and specific experience with traumatic brain injury cases.
2. Have You Handled Similar Cases Before?
Not all personal injury lawyers specialize in brain injuries. Find out if the attorney has successfully handled similar cases. Ask about their success rate, past clients, and trial experience. A lawyer familiar with brain injury cases will understand medical terminology, required expert witnesses, and settlement negotiations.
3. What Is Your Success Rate in Brain Injury Cases?
A strong success rate indicates an attorney’s ability to secure maximum compensation. Request case results, settlements, and verdicts. The best attorneys will have a track record of winning cases similar to yours and achieving fair settlements for injured parties.
4. Do You Work on a Contingency Fee Basis?
Most personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless they win your case. Confirm their fee structure, including case-related costs, filing fees, and expert witness expenses. Understanding fees upfront helps prevent unexpected financial burdens.
5. Will My Case Go to Trial, and Are You Prepared to Provide Legal Representation?
Some lawyers prioritize settlements over trials. While settling is often beneficial, a brain injury case may require litigation. Ensure your prospective lawyer has trial experience and is prepared to take your case to court if necessary.
6. What Compensation Can I Expect?
A brain injury can lead to medical expenses, lost wages, and long-term care costs. Ask what damages you can recover, including medical bills, future treatment, rehabilitation, and pain and suffering. A skilled personal injury lawyer will fight for the compensation you deserve.
7. How Will You Handle Settlement Negotiations?
Insurance companies often try to undervalue claims. Your injury attorney should have strategies for settlement negotiations that protect your best interests. Ask how they calculate fair settlement amounts and whether they involve expert witnesses in their assessments.
8. How Many Cases Are You Currently Handling?
If an attorney has too many personal injury cases, they may not have enough time to focus on yours. A dedicated lawyer will prioritize your case, ensuring thorough preparation and aggressive representation.
9. What Challenges Do You Foresee in My Case?
Each personal injury lawsuit comes with challenges. Whether it’s proving liability, dealing with uncooperative insurance companies, or gathering medical evidence, your lawyer should anticipate obstacles and have a plan to overcome them.
10. Can You Provide References From Past Clients?
Past clients can offer insight into an attorney’s professionalism, communication skills, and case results. Ask for testimonials or case studies demonstrating successful brain injury claim resolutions.
11. Do You Offer a No Obligation Case Review or Free Consultation?
Many personal injury law firms offer a free consultation to assess your case. This meeting helps determine if you feel confident in the attorney’s abilities and if you’re on the same page regarding case strategy.
12. How Do You Communicate With Clients?
Clear communication is essential during a legal process. Ask how often you’ll receive updates, whether you’ll work directly with the attorney, and how they handle client questions or concerns.
13. How Do You Prove Liability in a Brain Injury Case?
Proving liability in a brain injury case requires strong evidence. Ask about their strategy, including using expert witnesses, medical records, and accident reports. Your lawyer must establish negligence and demonstrate the impact of your injury.
14. What Other Services Does Your Law Firm Provide?
A full-service law firm can assist with related legal matters, such as wrongful death claims, disability benefits, or ongoing medical treatment concerns. Ask what additional services they offer beyond personal injury claims.
15. What Should I Expect Throughout the Legal Process?
Understanding the steps involved in your case helps set expectations. Your potential personal injury lawyer or brain injury attorney should explain the timeline, possible delays, and what actions you need to take, such as attending medical evaluations or depositions.
Choose the Right Brain Injury Lawyer
Choosing the right attorney can make a significant difference in your case’s outcome. At Bourassa Law Group, our dedicated brain injury lawyers will fight for your rights, secure fair compensation, and guide you through the legal process with care and expertise.
If you or a loved one suffered a brain injury, we’re here to help. Contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step toward justice.
1-800-870-8910