Meeting with a personal injury lawyer for the first time can feel uncomfortable—not just because of the legal talk, but because you’re being asked to relive something painful. You might be unsure what to say, embarrassed about how it happened, or nervous you’ll forget something important. That’s completely normal.
But showing up prepared helps in two big ways: it makes you feel more in control, and it gives your attorney the information they need to start evaluating your case immediately.
This guide covers what to bring, what to expect, and what to ask in your first meeting, so you can make the most of your time and walk away with clarity about what happens next.
Why the First Meeting Matters
The initial consultation is your opportunity to explain what happened, share how your injury has affected your life, and start building trust with your potential attorney. It’s a two-way conversation that lays the foundation for how your case will be handled.
Fact check:
- Most personal injury attorneys in Washington—as elsewhere—offer free consultations and these conversations are confidential (Washington State Bar Association).
- You are not required to commit during the initial consultation.
It’s a chance for you to ask direct questions, bring up concerns, and understand what your legal options may look like.
What Happens During the First Meeting
If you’ve never met with an attorney before, here’s what typically happens:
Your lawyer will want to know:
- What led up to the accident
- The types of injuries you’ve sustained (physical, emotional, or both)
- What treatment you’ve received and what’s ongoing
- Your interactions with insurance companies
- How your daily life has changed
You don’t need to know legal terminology or have perfect answers. Just be honest and specific—the more details you provide, the more clearly your attorney can assess your case.
Key Documents to Bring
Bringing documentation is essential for laying the groundwork for your claim. These items can speed up the evaluation process:
- Accident or police reports
- Medical bills, records, and discharge papers
- Photos or video evidence (injuries, vehicle/property damage, accident scene)
- Insurance documents (your policy and any correspondence from adjusters)
- Witness information
- Letters, emails, or texts from the other party or their insurer
Fact check:
- These are standard and recommended by the American Bar Association.
If you’re missing some of these items, that’s okay—bring what you have. A good lawyer will help you gather what’s missing later.
Write Down What Happened In Your Own Words
Before the meeting, take 15–20 minutes to write a personal account of the accident. This doesn’t have to be formal—just accurate. Include:
- Date, time, and location
- What you were doing before the accident
- Exactly what happened, in order
- How you felt afterwards and what’s changed since
Also note how the injury is affecting you today. Are you missing work? Having trouble sleeping? Struggling with pain or anxiety? These personal details help your attorney understand the full impact.
Questions to Ask the Best Personal Injury Lawyer in Kent
Bring a list of questions to help decide if this lawyer is right for you. You might ask:
- Have you handled cases like mine before?
- What were the outcomes?
- How do you charge, and are there any upfront costs?
- How long do you expect my case to take?
- How often will I hear from you?
Fact check:
- Reputable firms, including in Washington, charge on a contingency basis (only getting paid if you win) and explain fees up-front (NOLO: Fees in Personal Injury Cases).
- Asking about experience, communication, and case timelines is common and recommended.
If you’re most concerned about affordability, ask about contingency fees and any possible costs.
Clarify Your Goals
Be ready to discuss what you hope to achieve:
- Are you seeking a quick settlement?
- Do you need long-term support for medical care or lost wages?
- Are you willing to go to trial?
There is no wrong answer. Your attorney can give realistic input based on your goals, evidence, and expected damages for your type of case.
What Happens After You Hire a Personal Injury Lawyer
Once you’ve chosen a lawyer, these are the usual next steps:
- Sign a retainer or representation agreement
- Begin investigation and evidence collection
- Gather medical records and insurance details
- Communicate with insurers on your behalf
- Receive regular updates about your case
Fact check:
- These steps are standard in personal injury cases, as confirmed by the Washington State Association for Justice.
A strong attorney-client relationship starts with clarity and ongoing communication. At Ranz Injury Law, we prioritize updates, clear language, and making sure you are always informed about your case.
Preparation Helps Us Help You
You don’t need to have everything figured out before a consultation. But the more information you can bring, the better your lawyer can protect your interests and guide you.
If you’ve been injured and are ready to talk to someone who understands, we’re here for you.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Contact Ranz Injury Law today to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation. We’ll help you understand your options, protect your rights, and work toward the compensation you deserve.
