If you’ve been injured or harmed and are considering legal action, your first consultation with an attorney is a critical step. At Salenger, Sack, Kimmel & Bavaro, we understand that meeting with a lawyer can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re dealing with the aftermath of a personal injury, medical malpractice, or another serious incident. To help you prepare, we’ve created this guide on what to bring, what to ask, and how to make the most of your initial consultation.
What to Bring to Your Consultation
Bringing the right documents and information to your first meeting ensures the attorney has a clear picture of your case. Here’s what we recommend:
- Accident or Incident Reports: Police reports, incident reports, or workplace injury reports provide crucial details about how and when the event occurred.
- Medical Records and Bills: Include records of diagnoses, treatment plans, prescriptions, and bills to document the extent of your injuries and medical expenses.
- Photographs or Videos: Photos or videos of the accident scene, your injuries, or the defective product involved can serve as powerful evidence.
- Witness Information: Names and contact information for anyone who witnessed the incident or has relevant knowledge about your case.
- Correspondence with Insurance Companies: Bring any letters, emails, or notes from conversations with insurers. This can help your attorney understand the insurance company’s stance.
- Pay Stubs or Employment Records: If your injury has impacted your ability to work, proof of lost wages or employment records will be essential.
- Timeline of Events: A written timeline of events leading up to and following the incident can help your attorney quickly grasp the details.
- Relevant Documents for Sexual Abuse Cases: For cases involving sexual abuse under the Child Victims Act (CVA) or the Adult Survivors Act (ASA), bring any documentation that supports your claim, such as journal entries, photographs, or correspondence with institutions that may have been aware of the abuse.
Questions to Ask During Your Consultation
Your initial consultation is an opportunity to assess the attorney’s experience, approach, and compatibility with your needs. Here are key questions to ask:
What Is Your Experience Handling Cases Like Mine?
- Whether it’s a personal injury, medical malpractice, product liability, or sexual abuse case, you need an attorney with specific expertise in your type of claim.
What Are the Strengths and Weaknesses of My Case?
- An honest evaluation of your case’s merits will help you set realistic expectations.
What Compensation Could I Be Entitled To?
- Ask about potential damages, including medical costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and punitive damages if applicable.
How Do You Handle CVA and ASA Cases?
- If your case involves abuse covered by these laws, inquire about the firm’s experience navigating the unique legal complexities and time-sensitive requirements of CVA and ASA claims.
What Is the Process for Pursuing My Claim?
- Understanding the timeline, steps, and potential outcomes will help you feel more prepared.
How Are Legal Fees Structured?
- At SSKB, we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case. Confirming this ensures there are no surprises.
Who Will Be Handling My Case?
- Ensure you know whether your case will be managed by the attorney you’re meeting or a team member.
How Do You Communicate with Clients?
- Ask about preferred communication methods and how often you can expect updates.
Tips for a Productive Consultation
- Be Honest: Share all relevant details about your case, even if they seem unfavorable. Transparency helps your attorney prepare for potential challenges.
- Take Notes: Write down important information, including next steps and any documents you need to provide.
- Ask About Deadlines: Personal injury and medical malpractice cases in New York are subject to statutes of limitations. For CVA and ASA cases, there are specific filing deadlines you must meet.
Why Choose Salenger, Sack, Kimmel & Bavaro?
At SSKB, we’ve spent decades fighting for justice for New Yorkers. Our firm has a proven track record of success in personal injury, medical malpractice, product liability, and sexual abuse cases. We’re also deeply experienced in handling CVA and ASA claims, ensuring survivors of abuse get the representation they deserve. When you work with us, you’re partnering with a team that treats every client with compassion and respect while providing aggressive legal advocacy.
Schedule Your FREE Consultation Today
If you’re ready to discuss your case, contact Salenger, Sack, Kimmel & Bavaro. Call us or fill out our online form to schedule a FREE, no-obligation consultation
