Working with a personal injury lawyer is not something most people have done before. The process involves more than simply hiring someone and waiting for results. Knowing what to do, and what to avoid, from the beginning puts you in a much stronger position.
Our team at Loshak Law PLLC regularly discusses with new clients how the attorney-client relationship actually works in practice. A dog bite lawyer may be able to help you recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages, but that outcome depends, in part, on how well you participate in your own case.
Your Role Does Not End at Signing
Many clients assume that once they retain an attorney, their job is done. It is not.
You are the one living with the injury. That means you have access to information your attorney cannot get anywhere else, and providing that information consistently and honestly is one of the most important things you can do.
From day one, prioritize the following:
- Seek medical attention immediately and continue all recommended treatment
- Keep every bill, record, and correspondence related to your injury
- Document how your injuries affect your daily life, work, and relationships
- Avoid discussing your case or posting about it on social media
- Notify your attorney of any changes in your condition or circumstances
Gaps in treatment, inconsistent documentation, or public statements can all be used by the opposing party to undermine your claim. These are avoidable problems.
Be Honest With Your Attorney
This point cannot be overstated. Your attorney is on your side, and that means they need the full picture, including anything that might seem harmful to your case.
If there is a pre-existing condition related to your injury, say so. If there were factors surrounding the incident that are less than straightforward, disclose them. An attorney who knows the weaknesses of a case can prepare for them. One who is caught off guard cannot.
What to Do When Insurance Companies Call
Do not speak with the other party’s insurance adjuster without guidance from your attorney. Adjusters are trained to minimize payouts, and even a casual, well-intentioned comment can be used against you later.
If you are contacted, it is entirely appropriate to state that you are represented by an attorney and to direct all communication to your legal team. You are not required to give a recorded statement.
Manage Your Expectations Around Timing
Personal injury cases take time. The timeline depends on the severity of your injuries, the complexity of liability, and whether the matter resolves through settlement or proceeds to trial. Pushing for a fast resolution before your medical treatment is complete often results in accepting less than your case is worth.
We advise clients to let the process move at the pace it requires. Patience is not passive. It is strategic.
Stay responsive throughout. Return calls and emails promptly, attend all scheduled appointments, and keep your attorney informed. These are not small things. Cases are built on details, and staying engaged helps us build yours more effectively.
Understanding the Costs
Most personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you do not pay attorney fees unless there is a recovery. That said, you should understand the fee structure before you sign a retainer agreement. Ask about litigation costs, how expenses are handled, and under what circumstances those costs might be deducted from a settlement. A clear understanding of the financial arrangement avoids misunderstandings later.
Taking the First Step
If you have been injured as a result of someone else’s negligence, time matters. Evidence deteriorates, witnesses become harder to reach, and statutes of limitations set firm deadlines on your right to file. Reaching out to a personal injury attorney as soon as possible after an injury preserves your options. We are here to review the facts of your situation, explain what the law allows, and help you make informed decisions about how to move forward.