Some of the questions to ask your personal injury lawyer during a free consultation include questions about their experience, how they plan to maximize your compensation, and how they expect your case might go.
The emotional toll that situations like these can create often makes it hard to understand how to proceed with your case. Thankfully, you don’t have to figure everything out by yourself.
With a personal injury lawyer in New Orleans by your side, you can trust that a professional is advocating for you at all times and fighting for a favorable outcome in your case. Keep reading to learn more about which questions you should ask when you meet with your legal counsel.
Why These Questions Matter
When you’re seeking help after an accident, you’re likely overwhelmed. Not only are you trying to recover from the physical injuries you sustained, but it’s not uncommon for personal injury victims to feel preoccupied as they mentally process the events that unfolded as well.
Ultimately, asking the right questions early on not only helps you understand the legal process but also gives you peace of mind that your case will be handled in a way that protects your rights under Louisiana law.
These questions are designed to help you feel informed and empowered.
11 Questions to Ask Your Personal Injury Lawyer
Without further ado, let’s take a look at 11 questions you should ask your personal injury lawyer.
1. How Much Experience Do You Have With Personal Injury Cases in Louisiana?
Laws and court procedures can vary significantly from state to state. It’s important to ask if the lawyer is familiar with Louisiana-specific issues, such as civil code differences, local court expectations, and common insurance practices.
2. Have You Handled Cases Like Mine Before?
Every personal injury case is different, but asking this question can help you understand whether the attorney has experience with your type of injury or accident—no matter if it’s a car crash, premises liability, medical malpractice, or another scenario.
3. What Do You Think the Strengths and Weaknesses of My Case Are?
This question can reveal how carefully the lawyer has reviewed the facts and whether or not they can give you an honest, realistic assessment rather than false hope or empty promises.
4. What Damages Am I Eligible to Recover?
In Louisiana, damages may include medical expenses, lost wages, loss of earning capacity, emotional distress, or pain and suffering. Asking this question helps you get a better sense of what types of compensation might be available based on the details of your case.
5. How Does Louisiana’s Comparative Fault Law Affect My Case?
Since Louisiana uses a pure comparative fault system, this question is of utmost importance. If there’s any chance you could be found partially at fault, it’s important to know how that will influence your final settlement or verdict.
6. Will My Case Go to Trial, or Will It Settle?
Many personal injury cases settle before trial, but some still end up in court. It’s helpful to understand your lawyer’s approach—whether they are prepared to litigate if necessary or typically resolve cases through negotiation.
7. What Is the Timeline for a Personal Injury Case in Louisiana?
With a two-year statute of limitations in place for most personal injury claims, time is of the essence. This question helps clarify the steps involved, from investigation to settlement negotiations or court proceedings, and how long each phase might take.
8. How Do You Handle Medical Liens or Unpaid Bills?
After an injury, medical providers may place liens on your settlement to ensure they get paid. It’s important to know whether your lawyer can help you manage or negotiate these obligations under Louisiana law.
9. Will I Be Responsible for Any Case Costs if We Lose?
Personal injury lawyers often work on a contingency fee basis, but it’s still smart to ask what happens if your case isn’t successful—especially regarding out-of-pocket costs, like court fees or expert witnesses.
10. How Will You Keep Me Updated on the Status of My Case?
Consistent communication is important, especially in the face of legal matters that can take months to resolve. This question ensures that your lawyer has a plan in place to keep you informed as your case progresses.
11. What Is Your Strategy for Maximizing My Compensation?
Whether it’s negotiating with insurance companies or preparing for trial, this question helps you understand how your lawyer plans to pursue the best possible outcome.
Common Types of Personal Injury Cases
Many different types of personal injury claims can be brought in Louisiana. Here are some common examples:
- Motor vehicle accidents: This includes car, truck, motorcycle, and rideshare accidents. Louisiana law requires all drivers to carry liability insurance, and fault must be established before a claim can proceed.
- Slip and fall accidents: Property owners have a duty to keep their premises safe. When they fail to do so, and someone is injured as a result, the owner may be held liable for the victim’s injuries.
- Medical malpractice: These cases must meet strict procedural requirements—including a review by a medical review panel—before going to court.
- Product liability: If a defective product causes injuries, the manufacturer or seller may be held responsible for the outcome.
- Dog bites and animal attacks: Louisiana imposes liability on animal owners if the victim can show the animal posed an unreasonable risk of harm that the owner failed to prevent.
Contact Our Personal Injury Law Firm in New Orleans for Help Today
If you or someone you love was hurt in a personal injury incident, you don’t have to face the aftermath all alone. These events can be painful and stressful, not to mention full of uncertainty, but you don’t have to move through the justice system by yourself.
Instead, reach out to Cueria Law Firm to speak with New Orleans personal injury attorneys who can help. Our lawyers are prepared to advocate for your rights and pursue the compensation you need to move forward.
Since 1993, the lawyers at Cueria Law Firm have helped people in situations like yours pursue justice. We decades of combined experience, and we’ve recovered millions in compensation. The sooner you contact us, the sooner we can help. Call now.
