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8 questions to help you choose the best compensation lawyer

When you have a claim, whether it be workers compensation, public liability, CTP or any other personal injury claim, you can feel stressed, exhausted and overwhelmed. It’s normal to become emotional over the situation as there are many moving parts to deal with. This is where the services of a compensation lawyer come in handy. A compensation lawyer takes the emotion out of your case and instead, focuses on providing you with the best possible advice, guidance and support. At Prominent Lawyers, we aim to offer you with all this, and more. We understand that a compensation case is our client’s only chance at recovering the expenses and injuries that they have incurred and thus, we commit 100% to them.

When the time comes to fight for what you are owed, you want the best possible chance which lies with a great compensation lawyer. Though lawyers may know what to look for in a competent and experienced lawyer, an everyday person will now as well. For these reasons, we’ve outlined 8 questions to ask your prospective lawyers. Use this guideline when you are interviewing possible lawyers to represent you in your case. It will point you to the lawyer that’s right for you and your case. While we’ve focussed on workers compensation lawyers in this article, you can apply similar questions to whatever type of lawyer you are in need of.

8 questions to help you find the best workers compensation lawyer in Sydney

#1 What is your area of specialisation/expertise?

This goes without saying, however, you should select a lawyer who has both experience and training in workers compensation law. Even though a lawyer is qualified in law, specific areas of law can be quite complex. There is no possibility of a lawyer being specialised in all areas so, if you want the best chance at claiming compensation, hire a lawyer trained and experienced in workers compensation law.

#2 Do I have grounds for a claim?

There are different types of compensation such as car accidents, public liability, workers and medical negligence. Each has different requirements for proving a compensation claim. Before you hire a lawyer and get deep into the process, it is best that you ask your prospective lawyer about your case. Any trained lawyer will be able to accurately tell you if you have grounds for a claim.

#3 What are my chances of success?

Similar to the previous question, a competent workers compensation lawyer will be able to accurately tell you what the chances of a successful case are for your claim. This is helpful for determining whether you want to go ahead with your case. If the lawyer you are interviewing is unsure and cannot provide a comprehensive answer, then it is likely that he or she is not confident in workers compensation law.

#4 How much do you think I can claim?

Again, a competent workers compensation lawyer will be able to detail what you can claim compensation and give you a rough estimate about the amount you can expect, should you win. 

#5 Who will be working on my case?

This is an important question to ask because sometimes, with larger firms and more experienced lawyers, a team will work on your case and not the lawyer you initially speak to. Though this will not affect the outcome of your case, you may want to request information about the team that will be working on your case, if it is not solely one lawyer.

#6 What do you need from me?

This is more important for your own preparedness, however, it will also signal whether your lawyer will be able to help you find the necessary information for your case. You may have to gather medical reports, receipts and evidence from your injury. However, if you don’t have it or cannot access it, a competent lawyer will be able to assist you in gathering sufficient information.

#7 How can I expect to be updated?

Regular communication is key in a workers compensation case, and really, with any lawyer that you hire. Ask your lawyer how he or she intends to update you on your case’s progress. A good lawyer will effectively communicate with you about the progress of your case and be available to answer questions and concerns that you may have.

#8 What are your legal fees?

Of course, this affects whether or not you can afford to hire your prospective lawyer. Be sure to ask about payment options, plans and what you can expect to be charged for. 

Our Prominent Lawyers team is here to guide you through your workers compensation case. We will calmly answer any questions and concerns you may have and offer you the best legal advice and guidance for your situation. Our lawyers are here to support you and get you the help you need.