Questions to Ask a Personal Injury Solicitor Before You Instruct Them
If you’ve been injured in an accident and are thinking about making a compensation claim, choosing the right solicitor can make all the difference. With so many firms offering personal injury services, it’s important to ask the right questions before you commit.
At Stonehewer Moss Solicitors, we believe every client deserves expert advice, clear communication, and full transparency from day one. This guide sets out the key questions to ask a personal injury solicitor — so you can move forward with confidence, knowing your case is in safe hands.
Whether you’ve had a road traffic accident, workplace injury, or a serious fall, understanding what to look for in a solicitor can protect your legal rights and maximise your chances of success.
Quick Links:- Do They Specialise in Personal Injury Law?
- Have They Handled Similar Cases Before?
- Who Will Handle Your Case Day-to-Day?
- How Will Your Claim Be Funded?
- What Compensation Could You Claim?
- How Long Will Your Claim Take?
- Will Your Claim Go to Court?
- What Can You Do to Support Your Claim?
- How Stonehewer Moss Can Help
Need advice now? Speak to a solicitor by calling 01606 872200 or book your free 30-minute consultation today.
Do They Specialise in Personal Injury Law?
Why experience in personal injury law matters
Ask: Is personal injury law one of your main areas of practice, or just a secondary service?
Tip: Make sure the solicitor regularly handles serious injury claims — such as fractures, head or spinal injuries, amputations, or long-term disability cases.
Why it matters: A specialist personal injury solicitor will have in-depth knowledge of the legal process, including time limits, evidence requirements, and negotiations with insurers. This expertise can make a major difference to the outcome of your claim.
One of the most important questions to ask a personal injury solicitor is whether they truly specialise in this complex area of law. A dedicated expert is far more likely to secure the compensation you deserve.
Have They Handled Similar Cases Before?
The value of relevant case experience
Ask: Do you have experience dealing with cases similar to mine?
Examples to mention:
- Road traffic accidents
- Workplace injuries
- Cycling or motorcycle accidents
- Slips, trips and falls
- Serious or life-changing injuries
Why it matters: A solicitor who has successfully handled similar claims will know how to gather the right evidence, anticipate challenges, and negotiate effectively with insurers. This can help speed up the process and improve your chances of success.
When thinking about questions to ask a personal injury solicitor, always check whether they’ve dealt with your type of accident or injury before. Their practical experience could be crucial to the outcome of your case.
Who Will Handle Your Case Day-to-Day?
Understanding how your claim will be managed
Ask: Who will be responsible for managing my claim on a daily basis?
Questions to clarify:
- Will a qualified solicitor handle my case personally?
- Will I have a dedicated point of contact?
- How often will I receive updates on progress?
Why it matters: Consistent communication and personal attention are vital — especially if your injuries are complex or your recovery is ongoing. Knowing who is looking after your case can give you peace of mind and ensure nothing is overlooked.
Among the most practical questions to ask a personal injury solicitor is how involved they will be with your case. Will they be hands-on, or will your file be passed around? Clear answers here can help you choose the right firm.
How Will Your Claim Be Funded?
Understanding fees and payment arrangements
Ask: How are your legal fees structured, and what happens if my claim is unsuccessful?
Common questions to ask:
- Is the claim handled on a No Win, No Fee basis?
- What percentage of my compensation could be deducted?
- Are there any hidden or additional costs?
Why it matters: Knowing exactly how your claim will be funded helps you avoid financial surprises. A clear explanation of costs and success fees ensures transparency and allows you to plan confidently.
When considering questions to ask a personal injury solicitor, make sure funding and fees are fully explained upfront — especially if you’re pursuing a No Win, No Fee claim. You deserve clarity before committing to legal action.
What Compensation Could You Claim?
Getting a clear picture of your potential damages
Ask: What types of compensation could I be entitled to in my case?
Examples include:
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of earnings, including future income
- Medical treatment and rehabilitation costs
- Care needs, travel expenses, or other related losses
Why it matters: Understanding the different elements of a compensation claim can help you set realistic expectations and ensure that all your losses are fully accounted for — both financial and emotional.
One of the most essential questions to ask a personal injury solicitor is how they calculate compensation. A good solicitor will take time to assess the full impact of your injuries and fight for a fair settlement.
How Long Will Your Claim Take?
Managing expectations and planning ahead
Ask: What is the estimated timescale for my personal injury claim?
Points to consider:
- How the severity of your injuries might affect the length of the claim
- Whether liability is disputed by the other party
- If interim payments are available while the claim is ongoing
Why it matters: Knowing how long your claim might take helps you prepare emotionally and financially. While some claims are resolved quickly, others involving serious injuries or complex issues may take longer to conclude.
When going over questions to ask a personal injury solicitor, always check how realistic their timescale estimates are and whether they’ll keep you updated along the way.
Will Your Claim Go to Court?
Understanding the likelihood of legal proceedings
Ask: How likely is it that my personal injury claim will need to go to court?
Tip: While most claims settle out of court, it’s important to choose a solicitor who is fully prepared to take your case to trial if necessary.
Why it matters: A solicitor who is confident in handling litigation can give you peace of mind — and may also strengthen your negotiating position with the other side.
Among the top questions to ask a personal injury solicitor is whether they’re willing and able to pursue your claim through court if required. You need someone who won’t settle for less just to avoid a hearing.
What Can You Do to Support Your Claim?
Taking proactive steps to strengthen your case
Ask: What actions can I take to help strengthen my personal injury claim?
Examples of helpful steps:
- Keep detailed records of the accident and your injuries
- Attend all medical appointments and retain any reports
- Take photos of the scene or injuries, and collect witness details
- Maintain a diary of how your injuries impact your daily life
Why it matters: Early preparation and accurate evidence can significantly improve the strength of your case and increase your chance of receiving fair compensation.
When reviewing questions to ask a personal injury solicitor, don’t forget to ask how you can assist. A collaborative approach often leads to a better outcome.
How Stonehewer Moss Can Help
Specialist personal injury solicitors with a personal approach
Stonehewer Moss Solicitors are an APIL-accredited firm specialising in personal injury law. We’ve helped clients across England secure compensation for a wide range of claims — from road accidents and workplace injuries to complex, life-changing cases.
We offer clear, practical advice from the very beginning and provide ongoing support throughout the process. Every claim is handled with care and attention by experienced solicitors — so you always know who’s managing your case.
Our team is here to guide you through your options, explain the process clearly, and act quickly to protect your rights. We offer No Win, No Fee funding and a free 30-minute consultation to help you get started with confidence.
To discuss your situation or ask any of the important questions to ask a personal injury solicitor, call us today on 01606 872200 or start your claim online.
Frequently Asked Questions
You should ask whether they specialise in personal injury law, how much experience they have with cases like yours, how your claim will be funded, who will handle your case day-to-day, and whether they’re prepared to take your case to court if necessary.
Specialist solicitors have in-depth knowledge of the legal process, evidence requirements, and negotiation tactics needed to secure fair compensation. They’re also better equipped to handle complex or serious injury cases.
Ask for examples of similar claims they’ve dealt with — such as road traffic accidents, workplace injuries, or serious injury claims. A solicitor with relevant experience will be more confident in building a strong case on your behalf.
Yes, most personal injury claims in the UK are handled on a No Win, No Fee basis. This means you won’t pay legal fees upfront, and you’ll only pay if your claim is successful — usually as a percentage of your compensation.
Yes, you can change solicitors if you’re not receiving the service or expertise you expected. However, it’s important to check any agreements you’ve signed and speak to a new solicitor before making the switch.
