Collaborative post
There are many reasons you may need to consult with a lawyer. Perhaps you’ve had a car accident, have experienced medical malpractice or you’re considering getting a divorce. It is key that you look to get a lawyer who has experience and maybe specialises in your need, for example, if you have a car accident, a car accident lawyer is going to be able to relate and understand your case more than a divorce lawyer for example. Whatever the reason, there are certain questions that you should always ask your lawyer. But what are they?
What is the statute of limitations for my case?
If you’re wondering “what is the statue of limitations for my case?” you aren’t alone. This is a common concern that many people have when going through legal proceedings. A statute of limitations is a law passed by a legislative body to set the maximum time after an event within which legal proceedings may be initiated. For example, if you had an accident when driving on country roads several years ago, you might be worried that it has been too long for legal action. But don’t worry. Your lawyer will be able to talk all of this through with you and advise on the best course of action.
What is the likely outcome?
When going through legal proceedings, many people want to know what the likely outcome will be. This is completely natural because you want to be prepared. Whilst your lawyer won’t be able to give you any definite answers, they will be able to give some potential scenarios. They should talk these through with you clearly and efficiently, making sure not to use too much legal jargon. If you’re still uncertain about the potential outcomes, make sure you ask again. A lawyer who is doing their job properly will make sure that they communicate with you effectively, and will want you to know that you are in the loop.
Have you seen cases like mine before?
It’s important to ask your lawyer whether they’ve seen cases like yours before. This question will establish whether your lawyer is experienced in their field, and whether your case is unusual or not. By asking this, you can determine what the potential outcome of your case might be, too. If you want to do your own research, you might be able to find out some other cases and look them up separately. Sometimes this can help to make you feel more knowledgeable about the legal system, and therefore more confident if the case goes to trial.
How much will it cost?
There are many factors that determine how much a lawyer might cost. It’s an extremely complex process that relies on the area of law, the difficulty of the case and the reputation of the law firm. Therefore, it’s important to ask the lawyer how much everything will cost, and be upfront about prices. Generally, lawyers charge at an hourly rate, which ranges from around £100 to £300 per hour but don’t make any assumptions. Asking the question and waiting for a clear, informed answer is essential in having a positive relationship with your lawyer and will ensure that you don’t have any hidden fees down the line.