What questions should I ask a personal injury attorney before hiring them?

Before hiring a personal injury attorney, ask: (1) What percentage of your practice is personal injury? (You want a specialist, not a general practitioner.) (2) How many cases similar to mine have you handled and what were the outcomes? (3) Who will specifically be handling my case — you or an associate? (4) What is your honest assessment of my case's strengths and weaknesses? (5) What is your contingency fee percentage, and does it change if a lawsuit is filed? (6) How will expenses be handled — will they be deducted from my recovery? (7) How do you communicate with clients — how often, and how quickly do you respond? (8) Do you have trial experience, and are you willing to take this case to trial if needed? (9) What is a realistic timeline for my case? (10) Have you ever had disciplinary action taken by the state bar? Red flags: guarantees of specific outcomes, pressure to sign immediately, and an attorney who cannot describe their trial record.