5 Key Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Wrongful Death Lawyer

Nearly 201,000 people die from unintentional injuries every day. Sometimes, however, someone else’s negligence can cost a person their life. Did you recently lose a loved one due to someone else’s actions?

Make sure to contact a wrongful death lawyer right away. With their help, you can fight for damages.

Otherwise, losing a loved one can take an emotional and financial toll.

Discover the questions you need to ask before hiring a lawyer with this guide today.

1. How Long Have You Worked in the Industry?

The number of lawyers in the US has increased by 15% since 2008. Some have worked in the industry longer than others, though.

First, determine how long the lawyer has worked in the industry. Find someone with years of experience as an attorney. Make sure their experience is local, too.

Some laws and procedures can vary based on where your case is handled. A local lawyer might have local contacts they can utilize, too. For example, they might hire a medical expert or private investigator.

Make sure the wrongful death attorney you hire has the proper credentials, too. If they’re not licensed to practice in the state, look elsewhere.

2. Do You Have a Specialty?

Consider the specifics of your wrongful death case. How did your loved one die? For example, perhaps you have a medical malpractice case.

Maybe they died in a car accident or work accident.

Before hiring a lawyer, make sure their experience and expertise are relevant to your case. Ask how many similar cases they’ve handled, too. Their specialized experience could benefit your lawsuit.

3. How Did Your Recent Cases Go?

Ask the wrongful death lawyer about their recent cases. Discuss cases that were similar to yours as well. What was the outcome for each case?

Ask if the cases went to court, too.

Discussing recent cases can help you better understand the process moving forward. You can maintain realistic expectations about your wrongful death case. You can also determine if the lawyer has helped clients accomplish their goals in the past.

4. Can You Provide References?

Ask each lawyer if they can provide references and reviews. Speak with three of their recent clients. Was each client satisfied with the lawyer’s work?

Would they recommend you hire someone else?

Look for a lawyer who has a shining reputation. These lawyers will work hard to maintain the reputation they’ve earned over time.

5. What Strategy Would You Use?

Before hiring a lawyer, discuss the specifics of your case. Ask about their legal strategy.

Make sure they’re knowledgeable about the wrongful death statute. You can read this article to learn more.

The lawyer should conduct an investigation to gather more information. They shouldn’t use a cookie-cutter legal strategy, though. Instead, they should adjust their strategy based on your case and goals.

Make sure to ask about their fee structure, too.