After a negligence-based injury, there are eight things you shouldn’t say to your lawyer because they could hinder your case or harm your relationship. Avoid saying anything that is not true, and understand that the attorney/client relationship is confidential.
You also should not guess or embellish answers. Instead, answer any questions your lawyer has to the best of your ability and inform them if you are not sure of any answer. Allow them to assess the extent of your accident and resulting injuries and determine the potential value of your case.
Do Not Say Anything to Your Attorney That Is Not True
After an accident, the personal injury lawyer you hire cannot handle your case effectively without all the facts. Not only your attorney but the legal and insurance representatives for the at-fault party will also examine your case in detail. Any falsehood that comes to light could damage your credibility and your case.
Your lawyer is on your side and will build the strongest possible case for you based on the actual facts and the story the accumulated evidence tells. Always tell your attorney the strictest truth, and they will explain how the facts and details might affect your case.
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Do Not Exaggerate Your Injuries When Talking to Your Lawyer
Many law firms will recommend highly-qualified healthcare providers to assess and treat your accident-related injuries. When you visit them, you should avoid:
- Exaggerating the severity of your injuries
- Claiming to have injuries you do not actually have
- Attributing pre-existing injuries to your accident
Again, actions like these could cloud your case. Conversely, you should not give your injuries less weight than they deserve. Doing so could mean you do not receive appropriate medical care or fair compensation for your current and future treatment costs.
Do Not Tell Your Lawyer to Act On Your Behalf and Take Other Action Without Their Awareness
Before you choose a law firm to handle your case, you might have multiple consultations and speak to several legal teams. Once you choose an attorney, refrain from discussing your case with anyone else.
Talking to the at-fault party’s insurance company after you have a lawyer could result in something you say being used to limit your recovery later. It can also be harmful to speak to multiple lawyers while you have representation.
Share your thoughts on your case with your attorney and allow them to communicate with other involved parties on your behalf. Doing so can protect your rights and your best interests.
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Do Not Hide Injury Symptoms From Your Lawyer or Refuse Medical Attention
According to Mayo Clinic, a stress-induced rush of adrenaline can increase your heart rate, cause a rise in your blood pressure, and create a sudden burst of energy, so it can mask initial pain. At a later time, you may notice symptoms that a physician should assess.
If your attorney recommends a physical exam, seek medical attention as soon as possible.
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Do Not Say Anything to Your Lawyer That Is a Guess or Speculation
Your lawyer will ask you many questions as your case takes shape. In some cases, you may have to sit for a deposition or complete an interrogatory (a series of written questions).
Answer anything your lawyer asks you as succinctly as possible. Avoid exaggerating, downplaying what happened, or guessing an answer. If you do not know the answer to a question, tell your attorney. They will help you prepare to testify and/or calmly and confidently answer questions.
Do Not Ask Your Lawyer to Just Take Your Word for What Happened
It can be hard to talk about an accidental injury because it can take a physical and psychological toll. Discussing an accident that resulted in catastrophic injuries can also be difficult, and your lawyer will understand that.
They will listen to your version of events with patience, kindness, and compassion. From there, they will conduct a robust investigation with the goal of accurately determining negligence and liability. This way, they can assess your post-accident recoverable damages to avoid having your case undervalued or underpaid.
Do Not Instruct Your Lawyer to Accept the First Settlement Offer You Receive
An accidental injury, especially one that prevents you from working, can cause sudden financial hardship for you and your family. That can make it tempting to accept the first offer you receive and will be a risky response for multiple reasons.
All the costs of the accident may not be known, and you could be left with additional expenses you cannot recover later. In addition, you should never accept an offer your lawyer has not had an opportunity to weigh and measure or one you have not reviewed.
Do Not Tell Your Lawyer Your Accident Was Minor—Allow Them to Make That Determination
Your lawyer will investigate and assess every aspect of your case. Try not to reach a preconceived notion about your case, its severity, or its value. Your lawyer will uncover these details as part of their investigation.
A detailed look at your case could prove your property is more severely damaged than it seemed at first or that injuries show symptoms later rather than sooner.
Your Initial Personal Injury Consultation Is Always Free
If you were injured in an accident due to negligence on the part of another person or entity, you could be entitled to recover financial compensation. Our legal team will review your case at no cost or obligation to you. You will have a chance to tell us about your case and ask any questions you have about our law firm.
Contact one of our consultation team members at Kaine Law to learn more about the eight things you shouldn’t say to your lawyer and the frank and confidential conversation you can have with our client-focused legal team.
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