Free consultations go fast. Walk in with a one-page summary, ask every lawyer the same questions, and compare their answers and fees side by side afterwards.
1. Essential facts
2. Injury and treatment summary
Injury or symptom
Provider / diagnosis
Current impact
Next step
3. Financial impact
Category
Amount to date
Future concern
Proof available
4. Evidence and communications
Available
Police or incident report
Scene and injury photographs
Witness details
Insurance correspondence
Medical records or appointment list
Income records
Receipts and expense log
Proposed release or offer
Still needed
Video or surveillance inquiry
Vehicle or product preservation
Employer confirmation
Benefit plan documents
Prior medical records
Expert assessment
Deadline verification
Coverage confirmation
5. Questions for each lawyer
Question
Lawyer's answer
What are the strongest and weakest parts of the claim?
What must be done immediately?
Who will actually handle the file?
How will we communicate and receive updates?
How is the fee calculated at each stage?
How are expenses, taxes, interest, and cost awards treated?
What happens if there is no recovery?
What happens if I change lawyers?
What settlement and trial experience is relevant?
What should I realistically expect next?
6. Comparison scorecard
Category
Lawyer 1
Lawyer 2
Lawyer 3
Relevant experience
Quality of analysis
Responsible lawyer identified
Communication plan
Resources and experts
Fee clarity
Expected net recovery explanation
Settlement and trial capability
Professional fit
Overall confidence
7. Before signing
I verified the lawyer's current licence.
I received and read the complete retainer.
The scope of representation is clear.
I understand the fee formula and stage changes.
I understand expenses, taxes, interest, and cost awards.
I received or requested a sample settlement statement.
I know who will handle the file.
I know how updates and urgent issues will be handled.
I understand termination and file-transfer terms.
I received a signed copy for my records.
Educational planning tool only. Confirm local law, deadlines, and agreement terms with qualified counsel.