Updated October 16, 2026.
Hiring a lawyer should clarify responsibilities rather than leave you wondering who is doing what. Confirm the scope, costs, communication plan and next decisions. No firm can promise to fix every missing record or guarantee a settlement.
Define the matter and services
Ask which incident, parties and claims the proposed representation covers. Clarify whether property damage, medical reimbursement issues, litigation or an appeal are included or require a separate discussion.
The State Bar’s guidance on working with an attorney emphasizes understanding the work and cost. Keep a copy of the signed agreement and any later scope changes.
Distinguish fees from expenses
An attorney fee compensates legal services; case expenses can include records, filing or expert charges. Ask how each is calculated, advanced and handled if there is no recovery. Do not assume a short advertising phrase answers every cost question.
The State Bar fee guide discusses contingency percentages and whether costs are deducted before or after the fee calculation. The actual agreement controls the applicable arrangement.
Set a communication plan
Confirm your primary contact, how to send documents and how to flag an urgent insurer letter or storage notice. Ask which communications the firm will handle and what you should forward. Do not assume every direct contact becomes impossible immediately after a consultation.
Keep your contact information current. Tell the team about new treatment, changed work restrictions, new evidence and any statement or document you already signed.
Know your continuing responsibilities
Provide accurate information and preserve relevant records. Medical decisions belong with qualified clinicians. Do not delete relevant messages or social-media material, alter photographs or exaggerate limitations.
If something in your earlier account was wrong, explain the correction promptly and identify its source. An incomplete memory is better disclosed than replaced with a guess.
Confirm acceptance and deadlines
Ask whether representation has been accepted and who is tracking applicable deadlines. A free evaluation is not itself an extension. If a firm declines, seek timely advice about remaining options.
Request a free Fairmont Law Firm case review at (800) 324-7666. Intake assistance is available 24/7 in English and Spanish.
General information, not legal advice or a statement of individual fee terms.