Deciding to seek legal help after a personal injury can feel like a significant step. You might be unsure of the process or what to expect when you first meet with a personal injury lawyer. At Sticklen & Sticklen, we understand that you may have many questions and even some apprehension. That’s why we strive to make your initial consultation as comfortable and informative as possible. Here’s a glimpse into what you can typically expect when you come to our Joplin or Columbia, MO, office for your first meeting.
Sharing Your Story
The most crucial part of your initial consultation is sharing your story. We’ll want to hear the details of the incident that led to your injuries. This includes when and where it happened, how it occurred, and the immediate aftermath. Don’t worry about having all the details perfectly memorized. It’s more important to provide a clear and honest account of what you remember. Be prepared to discuss:
- The Date, Time, and Location of the Incident: Specifics are helpful for our initial assessment.
- How the Injury Occurred: Provide as much detail as you can about the events leading up to your injury.
- Who Was Involved: Names and contact information of any other parties, witnesses, or law enforcement officers present are valuable.
- Your Injuries: Describe the physical, emotional, and financial impact of your injuries.
Bringing any relevant documents you have, such as police reports, insurance information, medical records, and photos of the scene or your injuries, can be very helpful during this initial discussion.
Understanding Your Rights and Options
After hearing your account, our experienced personal injury attorneys will provide an initial assessment of your case. We’ll explain your rights under Missouri law and discuss the potential legal options available to you. This might include pursuing a claim against the negligent party to recover compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
We will also outline the legal process involved in pursuing a personal injury claim in Missouri, giving you a clearer understanding of the steps ahead. This is your opportunity to ask any questions you have about the legal process, our experience, and how we can help you.
Getting to Know Our Firm
Your initial consultation is also a chance for you to get to know Sticklen & Sticklen. We’ll discuss our firm’s experience in handling personal injury cases in the Joplin and Columbia areas, our approach to client representation, and our commitment to fighting for the rights of the injured. We believe in open communication and will explain our fee structure clearly, so you understand how we work and what to expect.
Next Steps and What to Expect Moving Forward
At the end of your initial consultation, we’ll discuss the next steps in your case. This might involve gathering more information, conducting an investigation, or formally initiating a claim. We will clearly outline what you can expect from us and what information we may need from you moving forward.
Your first meeting with a personal injury lawyer is a crucial step towards understanding your legal rights and options. At Sticklen & Sticklen, serving Joplin, Columbia, MO, and the surrounding areas, we are dedicated to providing you with a clear, compassionate, and informative initial consultation. If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, we encourage you to contact us for a free consultation to discuss your case. Let us help you navigate the path to recovery and justice.
Ready to take the first step? Contact Sticklen & Sticklen today for a free consultation.