Top 5 Areas to Discuss During Your First Meeting With a Personal Injury Lawyer

Meeting with a personal injury lawyer for the first time can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re dealing with pain, medical bills, or time away from work. Preparing for that initial consultation helps you make the most of the meeting and sets the foundation for a strong legal case.

To get the clarity and confidence you need, Tiemann Law Firm is here to keep you informed about the top five areas to discuss during your first meeting with a personal injury lawyer.

1. Details of the Accident or Injury

Your lawyer will need a clear understanding of what happened. Be ready to walk through the incident step by step, including where and when it occurred and who was involved. Even details that seem minor, such as weather conditions, road hazards, or witness statements, can be important.

Bring any documentation you have, such as:

• Police or incident reports
• Photos or videos from the scene
• Names and contact information of witnesses

Providing accurate, detailed information helps your personal injury attorney assess liability and identify potential legal strategies.

2. Medical Treatment and Current Condition

Your health is a central part of any personal injury claim. During your first meeting, discuss all medical care you’ve received so far, including emergency treatment, hospital stays, follow-up appointments, and physical therapy. Be honest about how you’re feeling physically and emotionally.

Key points to cover include:

• Diagnoses and treatment plans
• Ongoing pain or limitations
• Future medical care you may need

This information helps your lawyer estimate damages related to medical expenses and long-term impacts.

3. Insurance Coverage and Communications

Insurance plays a major role in personal injury cases. Let your lawyer know which insurance companies are involved and whether you’ve already spoken with any adjusters. If you’ve received settlement offers or requests for recorded statements, bring those documents with you.

Discuss:

• Your own insurance policies
• The at-fault party’s insurance, if known
• Any deadlines or correspondence you’ve received

Your attorney can advise you on how to handle insurers and protect your rights moving forward.

4. Financial Impact of the Injury

Personal injuries often create financial stress beyond medical bills. During your consultation, talk openly about how the injury has affected your income and daily life. This may include missed work, reduced earning capacity, or out-of-pocket expenses.

Examples of financial damages include:

• Lost wages or lost job opportunities
• Transportation or caregiving costs
• Home or vehicle modifications

These factors are essential when calculating fair compensation.

5. Legal Process, Fees, and Expectations

Finally, use your first meeting to understand the legal process and what to expect from your personal injury lawyer. Ask about timelines, potential outcomes, and how communication will work throughout your case. It’s also important to discuss fees, including whether the lawyer works on a contingency basis.

Knowing how your attorney approaches cases and how you’ll work together can give you peace of mind and confidence in your decision.

If you have a personal injury case to pursue and need support and guidance, contact the personal injury attorneys of Tiemann Law Firm to set up a free, same-day consultation at (916) 999-9000 or toll-free: 855-999-9000.