1. How many years have you practiced law? Your prospective attorney should not be a novice. Younger attorneys, however, might be utilized to perform some of the work on your case but they should not be given full case management authority.

2. Do you have a policy of professional liability insurance? Like doctors, attorneys should maintain a malpractice insurance policy in the event that mistakes occur.

3. Do you routinely take cases like mine to trial or settlement, and if so how many? This answer will demonstrate your prospective attorney's experience and familiarity with cases like yours.

4. How much time do you devote to cases like mine, that is, what percentage of your law practice focuses on this area of law? The attorney you retain should devote at least 75% of their practice to area to your case's subject matter.

5. Will you utilize the assistance of younger attorneys or paralegals on my case? Younger attorneys and paralegals are often used to perform important tasks, but should play a limited role in your case. However, it is important that you ask to meet them and use your personal judgment to evaluate them. Even though the subject matter and law governing your case might be foreign and unfamiliar you should not discount your ability to size up an attorney candidate and his staff.

6. How quickly do you typically return client phone calls? Some attorneys are notorious for failing to return client phone calls. In fact, this complaint usually tops the list of all client complaints about their lawyers. Your attorney should have a policy whereby he returns client calls within 24 hours, absent unusual circumstances. Be sure to have your attorney put this requirement in your retainer agreement, to ensure compliance.

7. Do you routinely take the time yourself to explain to clients all of the court procedures, legal concepts, fee arrangements, billing practices, retainer agreements, and payment of costs? Your attorney should answer in the affirmative, as these matters are integral to your case. By asking this question, you are demonstrating that you are willing and able to learn about your case and be completely involved.

8. Do you have a strategy that you employ for cases similar to mine? Your prospective attorney's answer will demonstrate his organizational skills and whether or not he is familiar with the subject matter implicated in your case.

9. What is the likelihood of a quick settlement or trial? Beware the attorney who promises a quick settlement or trial. However, your attorney should be able to provide a well reasoned estimate of the time necessary to reach disposition of your case.

10. What is the best way for me to help you in order that we reach a successful outcome in my case? And, most importantly, in your expert opinion do you believe that I have a case or is my situation just one of those unfortunate cases with no real chance of recovery? (This question should be asked with the knowledge that terrible things do happen and sometimes there is no legal recourse). Not all wrongs have a legal remedy. Your attorney might recommend that you not pursue your case. This is probably the most important question to ask and the most difficult answer to hear, but a quality attorney will provide you an action plan to handle your case that outlines your participation and the likely chance of victory.

Take your first step now; contact a personal injury attorney at http://www.personalinjuryresourcecenter.com. The attorneys listed here are ready, willing, and able to answer your questions, provide expert advice and take on your case today.