A job loss, demotion, or other concern can be emotionally and financially devastating, especially when illegal practices are involved. As you prepare for the future and consider your next steps, you should consult with an attorney in Jackson County, Missouri. But don’t head into that meeting blindly. Instead, we suggest you proactively fight for your rights by knowing what questions to ask an employment lawyer.
Prepare for Your First Meeting: 9 Questions to Ask an Employment Lawyer in Jackson County, Missouri
1. Have You Worked on This Kind of Case Before?
Employment cases come in all shapes and sizes, underscoring the need to choose a lawyer with knowledge in your particular matter. An experienced lawyer is more likely to understand your unique challenges and build a comprehensive case based on the facts. On the other hand, a novice may make simple but damaging mistakes that can hinder your chances of compensation.
Let’s say your boss terminated your employment after learning you have a disability. You will, in turn, need an attorney experienced in disability discrimination cases. Likewise, if your boss tried to evade overtime laws or failed to pay you for all hours worked, your attorney must have considerable skill in presenting evidence. Every legal matter is different, but an experienced attorney can manage your case and help you rebuild your life.
2. How Much of Your Practice Is Devoted to Employment Law?
This point may seem redundant. An attorney who promotes their services in employment law should be skilled in that area, right? But some attorneys are general practitioners with knowledge of, not experience in, employment law. Other offices may spend only 10 or 20 percent of their time on employment matters, meaning their focus is likely spread across a field of highly diverse cases.
An attorney devoted to employment law will likely be better equipped to navigate your claim than one who only dabbles in such disputes. This distinction is important. The former can provide legal guidance, meet court filing deadlines, and manage communications with your former employer. However, someone who only occasionally works in employment law may be accustomed to different cases with different needs, meaning they may miss a crucial point.
3. What Strategy Is Right for My Case?
This is not to say that all cases can be handled out of court. The opposing party may not be eager to negotiate, or they may offer a settlement so low that you have no option but to go before a judge. The point is that you need to know what direction your lawyer thinks will be right for your claim. You can then make informed decisions as your case progresses.
4. How Many Employment Cases Have You Successfully Taken to Trial?
5. How Long Will My Case Take to Resolve?
6. How Do You Communicate with Clients?
7. What Do I Need to Prepare for My Case?
- Employment contract
- Doctor’s notes and health records
- Employment records
- Emails and texts with your employer
Your lawyer may also need written statements to record your version of events. Depending on the nature of your case, your co-workers may be asked to give similar statements that can help substantiate your claim. With this in mind, you should collect your basic employment information to give the attorney at your first meeting.
8. What Are Your Previous Results with Employment Cases?
9. What Legal Options Do I Have?
By asking the right questions, you can find an attorney in whom you can place your complete trust. By the right questions, we mean those that give you access to your attorney’s experience, reputation, and skill level. We’re available to help you on this journey by offering personalized, resourceful legal representation. Schedule your consultation today by contacting Holman Schiavone, LLC.