Meeting with an Attorney
During your first meeting with an attorney after any accident or injury, your lawyer will first want to hear about what happened, and he or she may collect a variety of information from you. The length of the initial interview can vary depending on the circumstances that led to your injuries. In rather straightforward cases like car accidents, the first meeting probably won't take very long, especially if you come prepared. In more complex cases like medical malpractice or injuries from defective products, the initial interview will usually take longer.
As you tell the lawyer about your accident, he or she may ask questions about it. Frequently, lawyers wait until you have told them everything before asking questions. While some of these questions may be difficult to hear, let alone answer, your lawyer does need to know the answers in order to help you find the best solution for your case. Your lawyer will collect a variety of information relating to your accident or injury, including facts about your medical treatment, others involved in the accident, potential witnesses, and more. He or she will likely also discuss practical aspects of your case such as a representation agreement, different types of legal fees, and the kinds of costs you can expect in your case.
Here is an idea of what you can expect during your first meeting with an attorney:
- The lawyer may ask you to sign a form authorizing the release of your medical information from health care providers, so that he or she can obtain your medical records on your behalf
- The lawyer will want to know about all your insurance coverage.
- The lawyer will ask if you have talked to any insurance adjustors and if so, what you have said and whether you provided a recorded or written statement about the accident or injury.
- The lawyer will ask if anyone else has interviewed you about the accident or your injuries, and if so, with whom you spoke and the details of what was discussed.
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