Personal Injury 101: Free consultation

If you have been injured in an accident, it is important to choose an attorney who will fight to get you all the compensation allowed by the law.  To find the right attorney, you will likely have to participate in a “free consultation.”  In most personal injury cases, you will only pay your attorney if they recover money on your behalf.  This type of arrangement is called a contingency fee. 

What is a free consultation?

A free consultation is a meeting with an attorney or their staff to discuss the facts of your accident, the legal process, and whether they can help you with your case.  Because most personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, an attorney in this area of practice will almost always offer a free consultation.

What should you expect?

You should expect to talk about your accident, medical treatment, and the legal process. Then the attorney will review a contract with you (called a retainer agreement) that outlines the terms of representation, and you can then decide whether you want the attorney to represent you.  To prepare for your free consultation, it is often helpful to write down critical information like the names and numbers of witnesses or any investigating officers that responded to the scene, any medical treatment you received since the accident, as well as any other facts you can recall.  Taking notes before your meeting will help you answer the important questions that the attorney or staff member is sure to ask you: What happened? Where and when did it happen? How did it happen? Who was at the scene? What injuries did you sustain? What treatments have you received since your accident?  

What should you bring?

We recommend you bring everything you have. Here are some documents that are helpful to bring to a consultation:

• Accident/police report

• Notes you may have taken

• Information about witnesses

• Information about any other persons involved or their insurance

• A copy of your auto insurance policy

• A copy of your health insurance card

• Evidence such as photos or videos

• Emergency room or other medical records

• Questions you have about your case or the legal process

If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident, please call our office at 651-493-0426 to schedule a free consultation with one of our experienced personal injury attorneys.