How Long Does It Take to Get Paid After a Settlement?

The initial consultation is when you and your car accident lawyer get to know each other. You need to decide whether to hire this particular attorney for your case. At the same time, you need to learn more about the legal process and what you may be facing. Here are some questions that you should consider asking a lawyer when you speak to them during your initial consultation.

How Are You Paid for Your Efforts?

Your attorney will explain how they are paid. A car accident lawyer will explain how the contingency system works. Each attorney has a representation agreement, which explains what percentage of the proceeds the attorney is paid and how they will handle expenses. The representation agreement is a legal contract between you and your attorney.

How Long Do You Think My Case Will Take?

Although it is hard to give an exact idea of how long it would take for your case to conclude, an attorney could provide a rough and wide estimate. Many car accident cases can take years to resolve, although some could be settled sooner. If your case goes to trial, it could take longer.

How Can I Help You Do Your Job?

Your partnership with your lawyer can help increase the chances of a successful result in your case. You are working together to get the best possible result in your case. Your lawyer may need your help at some point during your case. Whether it is providing them with information or preparing to be a witness in your case, it is crucial that you help your lawyer effectively when they need it.

How and When Will You Communicate With Me?

Your lawyer should remain in touch with you throughout the case. They should periodically chat with you to explain what is happening and keep you informed. In addition, they must let you know about key developments in the case as they happen. Pay close attention to the lawyer’s attitude towards communicating with you. The last thing you want is for your attorney to be non-responsive during your case.

What Experience Do You Have With Cases Like Mine?

Not only should your lawyer be experienced, but they should also have a track record in handling similar cases. Make sure to ask the lawyer to discuss specific cases and the results that they achieved with you. You should not hire an attorney who has never tried a case like yours and has not taken a case to trial.

Will My Car Accident Case Go to Court?

It is understandable to want to know the process for how your case would be handled and resolved. In addition to asking whether your case would go to court, you would also ask about your lawyer’s philosophy on litigation. Your car accident case would likely settle at some point without needing a trial. Even if your lawyer files a lawsuit in court on your behalf, the sides would still likely reach a settlement agreement at some point. Your case generally only goes to trial when the insurance company denies your claim or will not pay you enough.

Contact a New Jersey Car Accident Attorney at Kitrick, McWeeney & Wells, LLC to Schedule a Free Consultation

If you have been injured in an accident, a New Jersey car accident attorney at Kitrick, McWeeney & Wells, LLC will lead the fight to get top dollar for your claim. You can schedule a free initial consultation by calling us at 732-800-9474 or by contacting us online. Our offices are in Manasquan and Brick, New Jersey, and we serve clients in Middlesex County, Atlantic County, Mercer County, Monmouth County, and Ocean County.