When you go to the first interview with a wrongful death attorney you should remember to keep an open mind. Don’t make a decision to employ an attorney with whom you are interviewing until you have had time to think about how your interview went and your experience discussing your case with him or her.
Upon going to your first meeting, you should have detailed notes that outline your problems and the steps you need to take to take your case to trial. This summary will include:
All the names, addresses and phone numbers of the various persons and companies that are involved. All of the documents that are part of the case, including: All the documents you have received from any other attorneys involved with the case. All the documents you have received from court or any court officers. Whatever journals you may be keeping regarding the case. Any written correspondences (especially emails) regarding the case. All receipts, contracts, medical bills, repair estimates, checks, pictures or secondary parties involved in the case. Written notes that detail the history of the case. Whatever employment benefit information that may be relevant to the case.
Your trial attorneys may want you to provide any written materials before your first interview in order to have adequate time to review them. You may want to offer copies rather than your originals at your first meeting. You should be aware that all trial attorneys are subject to attorney client privilege so they will keep your information in strict confidence.
You should make a list of questions for your attorney, such as: Are you experienced with my type of problem? Will you or one of your associates be personally involved with my case? Will you contact me regularly regarding my case? Will I be provided with copies of documents important to my case, and will I be charged for them? What decisions will I be able to make with regards to my case? How much time will it take to complete my case? What hourly billable rates will I be charged? What kind of retainer is required to begin services?
You should always keep in mind that hen you begin a wrongful death case, your wrongful death attorney is working for you. He or she will have your interests in mind and will do everything in their power to get you the justice you deserve. Your attorney may not be able to do everything you want, but within the bounds of the facts and the laws that apply he or she will do everything possible to win your case. Sometimes the best advice a lawyer will give is to avoid going to court. There may be other methods to resolve your problem, and mediation may be the best solution for all parties.
