The Initial Consultation And What To Expect

What To Bring

When preparing for your first meeting with a personal injury attorney, gathering and bringing as much relevant information as possible will facilitate a productive discussion. Remember that, ultimately, as good as it is to bring these items, don’t worry if you don’t have everything. Your attorney can obtain the documents they’ll need through their usual processes as necessary. However, having them upfront can dramatically streamline your case and speed up the initial evaluation.

Driver Exchange Form

This form contains critical details about the drivers involved and their insurance companies in car crash cases.

Police Report

If you have it, bring the police report. This document provides a detailed account of the incident, which can be a significant asset in understanding and building your case. Having this report will give you confidence and reassurance in your legal proceedings.

Photographs

Bring any photos related to the incident, including pictures of:

• The accident scene. They can provide context and evidence of conditions.
• Property damage
• Injuries
• Hazardous conditions (primarily for slip and fall cases)

Medical Records

Any medical documentation you have is vital. This includes:

• Discharge Papers: If you were treated at an emergency room, bring any discharge paperwork.
• Medical Reports: Any doctor reports or records, including MRI reports or other diagnostic tests.
• Health And Auto Insurance Cards: These will help your attorney understand your coverage and how to coordinate benefits.

Identification And Insurance Information

Bring a copy of your driver’s license for identification purposes. Health and auto insurance cards will also help break down your policy details.

Tow Receipts

If your vehicle was towed, bring any receipts or documentation. This will help you address potential storage fees and towing costs.

Treating Physicians

A list of all doctors you have seen for accident-related injuries and any pre-existing conditions. This includes:

• Primary Care Physician
• Specialists, such as orthopedists or other relevant doctors, you visit.

Micah Longo, based in Florida, is a seasoned personal injury attorney at The Longo Firm. With a wealth of experience, Micah has successfully guided numerous clients through the complexities of personal injury cases, from car accidents to slip and fall incidents. His deep understanding of the legal nuances and his commitment to client advocacy ensure that he can effectively represent your interests and help you secure the compensation you deserve.

If you're navigating a personal injury claim and seeking guidance, contact Micah Longo at The Longo Firm today to schedule your initial consultation.

Prior Medical Records

Bring any relevant prior medical records if you have a history of similar injuries or conditions. This helps establish the baseline for your current condition.

What To Expect

When you meet with a personal injury attorney for the first time, they will likely ask you various questions to understand your situation, the details of your injury, and its impact on your life. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the types of questions we ask our clients and a general idea of what you can expect:

Initial Impressions and General Well-being

• How are you feeling today?
• Can you describe your pain and how it affects you?

Personal Background

• Where are you from, and where did you grow up?
• What is your educational background?
• Do you have children or other family members?
• What is your occupation and work history?

Incident Details

• Can you explain what happened during the incident (e.g., car crash, slip and fall)?
• Do you have a copy of the police report or other official documents?
• Were there any witnesses? If so, what are their contact details?
• Were any statements made by the other parties involved?
• Do you have any photographs or videos of the scene or your injuries?

Medical And Treatment Information

• What injuries did you sustain, and how have they progressed since the incident?
• Were you transported by ambulance, or did you take yourself to the emergency room?
• What medical treatment have you received so far?
• How often do you experience pain or discomfort, and what triggers it?
• Can you provide a list of all treating physicians and medical providers?
• Do you have any prior medical conditions or injuries that might be relevant?
• What type of doctors or specialists would you prefer to see for treatment (e.g., chiropractors, physical therapists, orthopedists)?

Insurance And Documentation

• Do you have health insurance, and can you provide your insurance card?
• Do you have auto insurance? If so, please provide the details.
• Have you received any paperwork from the hospital, such as discharge instructions or medical records?
• Do you have any documentation of towing or vehicle storage if your vehicle was involved in an accident?

Impact

• Have you missed any time from work due to your injuries?
• Have you lost wages or other income as a result of the accident?
• Are there any other financial impacts or expenses you’ve incurred?
• How has your injury affected your daily routine and activities?
• What specific activities don’t you do because of the crash?
• How has the injury impacted your sleep, mobility, and overall quality of life?

Expectations

• What are your expectations or desired outcomes from pursuing this case?
• Are you worried about any future medical treatments or surgeries?
• Do you have any concerns about the legal process or your case?

Witnesses And Supporting Evidence

• Can you list witnesses who can testify about your condition before and after the incident?
• Can other people, such as employers or community members, provide supportive testimony?

History

• Have you ever been involved in a similar accident or legal case before?
• Are there any prior injuries or medical conditions that might be relevant to your current claim?

Other

• Are there any other details or concerns you think might be necessary for your attorney?
• Do you have any questions about the legal process, attorney fees, or next steps?

Next Steps Following the Initial Consultation

After gathering all the necessary information during the initial consultation, your attorney will outline the next steps in the process, which will likely look similar to the following.

Collecting Evidence

Your attorney will collect crash reports, witness statements, photographs, and other relevant evidence here. If necessary, they’ll also request insurance policies from the insurance companies involved.

Medical Treatment And Documentation

Your attorney will hound you to continue with your medical treatment and follow-up appointments. They’ll also advise you to obtain and review all medical records and bills related to your injury as necessary.

Communication And Representation

Next, your attorney will focus on sending letters of representation to the insurance companies and other involved parties. In doing so, they will also need to obtain the policy limits and language of the insurance policies.

Legal Preparation

This is when your attorney will really start going to work. They will begin building your case file with all relevant evidence and documentation. Toward this end, they will start preparing you for possible depositions, mediations, or court appearances.

Client Support And Guidance

This phase isn’t as tied to the legal dimension of your case, strictly speaking, but just as important. Your attorney will provide you with recommendations for medical providers if needed. In addition to this, they will offer ongoing support and guidance throughout the treatment and recovery process. They may assign you “homework,” such as keeping a daily journal of pain and your injury’s impact on daily activities.

For more information on The Initial Consultation And What To Expect, an initial consultation is your next best step. Get the information and legal answers you seek by calling (954) 546-7608 today.