What Questions Should You Ask Of A Personal Injury Solicitor?

Before you can start to make a personal injury claim, it is important to consider the questions you would like to ask you solicitor which will help you to make a decision about which law firm is going to be the best one to represent you.

Making the right choice is important for a number of reasons, and these questions should help you to make the choice which will ensure that you have a solicitor who has the expertise to handle your claim

1. How should I choose the right law firm for my legal issue?

There are many different types of legal problems, such as personal injury claims or employment law claims. Whilst many law firms offer a range of legal services, unless the law firm you approach has specialist experience in the area of law you need, you may not get the best possible outcome to your claim. It is preferable to speak to a specialist law firm first.

In addition to the firm’s specialist skills, you should consider where they are based. Whilst it is not essential to use a local law firm, as most things can be managed over the telephone, this may be something which is important to you and helps you make your decision.

Many firms offer a free consultation with you, either on the phone or in person. This will allow you to make sure that you feel comfortable with your solicitor before you instruct them.

2. Once I find a specialist firm, how do I know which one is the best?

There are a number of accreditation schemes set up by the Law Society which may demonstrate the firm’s expertise but in addition you should consider if you feel at ease when speaking with the law firm, and also the solicitor who will be dealing with your claim. Every solicitor has a practising certificate, which should be displayed in their office, or you can check on the Solicitors Regulation Authority’s website.

Many law firms will also use other staff to manage your claim, who may not be qualified but will be supervised by a qualified solicitor. You should speak to your solicitor at the start to understand how your claim will be handled within that particular firm.

3. English is not my first language – can I still make a personal injury claim?

You should not worry if you do not speak English well. Some law firms may have a qualified solicitor who speaks your language who can explain the legal process to you. If not, an interpreter will be arranged for you.

4. I have a free consultation arranged with a solicitor, what questions should I ask?

Before your meeting you should prepare a list of questions you want to ask the solicitor and make a note of anything you are not sure about, so this can be explained.

You should consider funding of your claim and ensure that you are clear about the options open to you. Do not feel under any pressure to make a decision there and then if you do not want to, but if you do instruct the solicitor, they should write to you giving details of how your claim is funded, who will be managing your claim and detailing the costs of your claim and how to make a complaint if the service you receive is below par.

If you would like to discuss a claim with us, please call us on 020 8520 1021  if calling from your mobile,  or complete our Free Online Enquiry Form and we’ll be in touch shortly.