Asking the right questions during an initial legal consultation, such as “Will you be the one handling my case personally?”, helps you evaluate whether a law firm has the experience and communication style to successfully manage your claim.
When hiring a lawyer in Scranton or elsewhere in Pennsylvania, viewing the initial meeting as an interview rather than just a case review empowers you to find an advocate who truly aligns with your needs.
Walking into a lawyer’s office for the first time feels intimidating. You likely have a lot on your mind—medical bills, pain from an injury, and uncertainty about the future.
While getting answers about your case is a priority, vetting a litigation firm is equally about determining if the attorney sitting across from you is the right partner for your journey. A consultation is a two-way street. The lawyer assesses the viability of your claim, but you must assess their ability to fight for you.
Legal insights from an experienced personal injury attorney at The Slocum Firm can clarify the path forward, helping you make informed decisions about recovery and securing benefits you may be eligible for under Pennsylvania law.
By preparing a list of targeted questions, you transform a simple meeting into a strategic step toward protecting your rights.
Key Takeaways About Hiring a Lawyer in Scranton
- Trial experience matters: Asking specific questions about an attorney’s trial experience helps confirm whether a lawyer is prepared to take a case to a verdict in Lackawanna County if a fair settlement cannot be reached.
- Direct access is key: Understanding lawyer communication and availability protocols ensures you hire an attorney who will speak with you directly throughout the process, rather than passing you off to support staff.
- Fee transparency: Discussing lawyer fee structures in Pennsylvania, specifically contingency fee agreements, clarifies that you only pay for legal services if financial recovery is secured.
- Navigating comparative negligence: An experienced attorney explains how Pennsylvania’s modified comparative negligence statute affects your claim and how they plan to challenge any attempts to unfairly assign fault to you.
Question 1: Who Will Actually Be Handling My Case?
One of the most common misconceptions clients have is that the senior partner they see on billboards or meet during the initial consultation will be the person handling their file day to day. In many large firms, cases are frequently handed off to junior associates or paralegals shortly after the retainer is signed.
Asking “Will you try my case personally?” cuts through the marketing and gets to the operational reality of the firm. You need to know who is drafting the motions, who is negotiating with the insurance adjusters, and who will stand next to you if the case goes to court.
The Value of Personal Attention
When you hire a boutique firm like The Slocum Firm, you generally gain the benefit of direct attorney access. This means the person building your strategy is the same person you talk to when you have questions.
- Consistency: A single attorney managing the file from start to finish ensures that no details fall through the cracks during handoffs.
- Strategy: An attorney who knows every medical record and witness statement is better positioned to pivot strategy during settlement negotiations.
- Trust: Building a relationship with your lawyer fosters trust, which is invaluable during the stressful periods of litigation.
If the answer to this question is vague or implies that a “team” handles everything without a dedicated lead attorney, it may be a sign that you will become just another file number. Prioritizing lawyer caseload and personal attention ensures your claim receives the focus it requires.
Question 2: What is Your Experience with Trials and Verdicts?
Many personal injury cases settle out of court. Because of this, some lawyers rarely, if ever, step into a courtroom. While settlement is often the goal, hiring a lawyer who is afraid of or inexperienced in trial can significantly weaken your bargaining position.
Insurance companies keep detailed records of law firms. They know which attorneys settle for less just to avoid court and which ones are willing to fight for a verdict.
Asking about an attorney’s trial verdict experience and how often they go to trial provides insight into their litigation philosophy. You want an advocate who prepares every case as if it were going to trial, because this preparation often compels insurance companies to offer fair settlements.
Evaluating Lawyer Qualifications in Pennsylvania
When vetting a litigation firm, consider digging deeper than just “years of experience.” You might ask:
- “When was the last time you took a case to verdict in Lackawanna County?”
- “What were the results of your most recent trials?”
- “Does your firm have the resources to fund a trial if necessary?”
A lawyer who can confidently discuss their recent courtroom experiences demonstrates that they have the skills to advocate for you before a judge and jury.
Question 3: How Do You Handle Fees and Costs?
Legal costs are a major concern for anyone seeking representation. Most personal injury attorneys operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning their fee is a percentage of the money they recover for you. If they don’t win, you don’t pay.
However, the details of a contingency fee agreement in Pennsylvania can vary, and understanding the fine print prevents surprises later.
Asking straightforward questions about lawyer fee structures in Pennsylvania creates transparency. You should ask about the percentage they take and whether that percentage changes if a lawsuit is filed or if the case goes to trial.
Case Costs vs. Attorney Fees
It is also vital to distinguish between attorney fees (payment for the lawyer’s time) and case costs (expenses incurred while building the case). Case costs can include:
- Filing fees for the complaint
- Costs for obtaining medical records
- Fees for expert witnesses, such as accident reconstructionists
- Deposition costs
Clarifying the Pennsylvania attorney fee arrangement upfront ensures you understand exactly how the financial side of your case works.
Question 4: What is Your Assessment of My Case Strategy?
After you have shared the details of your accident, asking “What is your preliminary strategy?” allows you to see how the attorney thinks. You are not looking for a guaranteed outcome—no ethical lawyer can promise that—but rather a roadmap.
Assessing personal injury case strategy involves understanding the legal hurdles you might face.
For example, in a slip-and-fall case, the attorney should explain how they plan to prove that the property owner knew about the hazard.
In a car accident case involving shared fault, they should discuss how Pennsylvania’s modified comparative negligence rule applies and how they plan to keep your liability below the 51% bar.
Identifying Challenges Early
An honest personal injury attorney in Scranton will discuss the potential weaknesses of your case, not just the strengths. They might point out gaps in medical treatment, issues with witness testimony, or preexisting conditions that the insurance company will try to exploit.
Evaluating lawyer qualifications in Pennsylvania involves looking for someone who is realistic about the maximum compensation you may be eligible to recover under the law. If an attorney promises a massive payout without discussing the challenges, they may be telling you what you want to hear rather than what you need to know.
A strategic lawyer outlines a plan to overcome these obstacles, demonstrating their ability to handle the complexities of the civil litigation process.
Question 5: How Will We Communicate?
The number one complaint people have about lawyers is poor communication. You are hiring a lawyer to take the burden off your shoulders, but that doesn’t mean you want to be left in the dark.
Establishing clear expectations for lawyer communication and availability during the consultation sets the tone for the entire relationship. Questions to ask during an injury lawyer consultation regarding communication include:
- “Will I have your direct cell phone number or email?”
- “What is your policy for returning calls and emails?”
- “How often will I receive updates on my case?”
- “Do you have a multilingual staff if family members need assistance?”
Clear and consistent communication builds trust and ensures you stay informed throughout your case. By asking these questions upfront, you can gauge whether the attorney values transparency and accessibility—qualities essential to a strong attorney-client relationship.
The Importance of Accessibility
At The Slocum Firm, we believe in being available 24/7. Injuries don’t happen on a 9-5 schedule, and neither does the anxiety that comes with them. Knowing you can text or call your attorney directly provides peace of mind.
If a firm relies heavily on call centers or screening processes that make it difficult to speak to a lawyer, it might indicate how they will treat you once you are a client.
Attorney responsiveness and client service are indicators of how much a firm values its clients. You deserve a partner who is accessible and willing to explain the legal process in plain English (or Spanish, if needed).
Red Flags to Watch For During the Consultation
While listening to the answers, pay attention to how the attorney behaves. There are subtle signs that a firm might not be the best fit:
- Guarantees: Be wary of anyone who guarantees a specific dollar amount or outcome. The legal system is unpredictable, and ethical attorneys discuss possibilities, not certainties.
- Pressure: You should never feel pressured to sign a contract on the spot. A reputable lawyer respects your need to think it over and compare options.
- Disorganization: If the office is chaotic or the attorney seems unprepared for your meeting, it may reflect how they handle their casework.
- Dismissiveness: If the attorney interrupts you, dismisses your questions, or uses overly complex jargon without explanation, they may not prioritize client communication.
Trust your instincts. If you don’t feel comfortable or heard during the consultation, it is okay to keep looking. Evaluating lawyer qualifications involves assessing both their legal acumen and their interpersonal skills.
FAQs About Free Legal Consultations For Personal Injury Cases in Scranton, PA
What happens during a free case evaluation?
During a free case evaluation, the attorney will review the details of your situation, assess the potential strengths and challenges of your claim, and explain your legal options. This meeting is also an opportunity for you to ask questions and determine if the lawyer is the right fit for your needs.
When will a lawyer start working on my case?
Once you agree to representation and sign the necessary documents, the lawyer typically begins working on your case immediately. This includes gathering evidence, contacting insurance companies, and developing a strategy tailored to your claim.
How long do I have to recover compensation after someone else’s negligence
causes me harm?
In Pennsylvania, the statute of limitations for most personal injury claims is two years from the date of the incident. Acting promptly ensures your lawyer has enough time to build a strong case and meet all legal deadlines.
Taking the Next Step in Your Legal Journey
The period following an accident is filled with decisions. Choosing the right legal representation is perhaps the most significant one you will make.
By asking the 5 critical questions above, you take control of the process. You move from being a passive participant to an informed client who demands the quality representation you deserve.
The goal of the initial consultation is clarity. You should leave the meeting understanding your rights, the potential challenges of your case, and how the firm plans to advocate for you.
At The Slocum Firm, P.C., we welcome these hard questions. We offer direct attorney access and honest assessments because we know that trust is the foundation of every successful case.
Are you ready to get honest answers about your accident claim and see if our firm is the right fit for you? Contact The Slocum Firm today for a free, no-obligation consultation. We are available 24/7 to take your call.
Scranton Personal Injury Lawyer Legal Resources
Our attorneys have curated these resources to offer insights relevant to those considering or pursuing the legal services The Slocum Firm offers. For personalized legal guidance, contact our firm directly to schedule a free case evaluation with our personal injury attorneys.
