Questions you should ask a solicitor
You’ve had an accident that wasn’t your fault and now need legal help. But how do you find a personal injury solicitor?
One which will fight your cause and secure the justice you deserve. While treating you as an individual and not a number.
You will find huge differences, in quality, between personal injury solicitors. So, we have produced a list of questions you should ask before appointing any solicitor.
If there are any red flags after asking these questions, walk away. There are plenty of reputable solicitors who would be willing to help you.
QUESTIONS TO ASK A PERSONAL INJURY SOLICITOR
Do you specialise in personal injury cases and how long have you been practicing?
Some firms offer many different legal services. Some specialise in one area. We recommend finding someone who specialises in personal injury. They are likely to have more knowledge and expertise in cases like your own.
Do you think I have a chance of winning my case?
After an initial consultation, which is usually free, a solicitor will advise you. They will give their opinion on whether there is a chance of a successful outcome.
How long does it take to resolve a case like mine?
It can take anything from six months to several years. It depends on the complexity of the case, whether we can resolve liability, and the nature of the injuries sustained.
Usually, our advice is to await a final prognosis before settling your claim. All very much depends on your recovery.
Have you handled any similar cases? If so, what is your success rate with cases like mine?
The solicitor will know if they have handled similar cases and will be able to outline these. They should also know their previous success rate in similar cases. Every case turns on its own facts and merits though.
What do you need from me to start my case?
The more evidence you can provide to your solicitor the better. This could include contact details of witnesses or witness statements. Details of the incident logged in an accident book or photos of the injuries or accident location.
If you have receipts for expenses incurred as a result of the accident.
These could be travel receipts for medical appointments, medication, or pay slips.
Do you see any problems with my case?
The solicitor should be able to outline any foreseeable issues with your case. If they have experience and knowledge of similar cases.
Who will be handling my case?
Some firms use paralegals and legal assistants who work alongside a solicitor. At NV Legal a Grade A solicitor will handle your case. Your solicitor will be your only point of contact.
What is the best way to contact you?
Reputable firms should have several means of contact. Choose one which you prefer dealing with and are comfortable using. We are an environmentally friendly office and paperless as far possible. We encourage telephone and email communication.
How will you update me about my case and how often?
Lack of communication can be an issue with some firms. We advise you of the time frame for your case and when you will next be contacted with an update. There is usually a routine update every four weeks but often we will be in contact with you much more regularly as and when the case requires. We require your full cooperation throughout.
What are your fees and how much will it cost me?
Fees can vary between law firms. We operate on a no-win no-fee basis. If your case is unsuccessful, you do not pay our fees.
We fund your disbursements throughout and you will not be asked to pay anything upfront.
If we are successful with your case the maximum deduction for our fees is 25% of damages. This deduction only applies to the compensation for the injury and past losses, it does not apply to future losses or treatment.
We advise our clients to take out After the Event insurance (ATE Insurance). This covers the legal costs and expenses involved in litigation. It protects against adverse costs orders and covers disbursements such as medical report fees and court fees. Plus, the defendant’s costs and their disbursements if the case is unsuccessful and they are awarded costs in certain situations.
What happens if I lose my case?
The ATE insurance policy covers you and you do not pay anything.
Unless you are found fundamentally dishonest by a court. The policy would then become invalid.
Do you have any references from previous clients?
Solicitors should provide references or have testimonials from previous clients. You can check Trustpilot, Google My Business, or the solicitor’s social media pages. You should be able to see the reviews listed. This can give you an understanding of how the firm operates as there can be negative reviews too.
What if I am not happy with my previous solicitor’s advice and I have settled my case?
People tend to assume that once a solicitor settles a claim it is too late to reopen. This is not true. NV Legal can act on your behalf to recover what you deserve. We will take the necessary steps to get your previous solicitor’s file and can say whether you have a claim.
How many cases do you handle at a time?
This is important as some firms take on a larger workload than they can handle. We are a small, niche, specialist personal injury practice. Our reputation and customer service are important to us. By having manageable caseloads, we can provide the personal service you deserve.
NV LEGAL
NV Legal specialises in personal injury claims. Our solicitors are all experienced in dealing with personal injury or professional negligence. If you or someone you know has had an accident that was not their fault, contact us for legal advice.
Consultations are FREE of charge.
Call – 03308 281 586
Email – info@nvlegal.co.uk
Website – www.nvlegal.co.uk
