Essential Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Personal Injury Lawyer

What to look for when choosing the right advocate after an accident

When you are injured because of someone else’s negligence, the personal injury lawyer you choose in Sacramento can make a huge difference in your life. Not every attorney brings the trial experience, communication skills, or dedication required to secure full and fair compensation. You deserve a lawyer who listens carefully, explains your options clearly, and fights for you from day one.

At The Choyce Law Firm, we want you to feel confident before you sign anything. This process begins with asking smarter questions and knowing exactly what to look for when evaluating an injury attorney for the first time. With the right information, you can make a decision that protects your health, your family, and your financial future.

No fee until we win – because you deserve maximum compensation without the stress.

What a Trusted Personal Injury Lawyer in Sacramento Helps You Recover

• Current and future medical treatment costs
• Lost wages and reduced earning potential
• Pain, suffering, and emotional distress
• Property damage and other related expenses
• Support for long-term rehabilitation and lifestyle impacts

Why Experience Matters in a Personal Injury Lawyer

The Choyce Law Firm is led by Dionne E. Choyce, a former Alameda County prosecutor turned million-dollar trial warrior who has recovered millions for injured Sacramento clients and achieved life-changing verdicts, including a recent not-guilty verdict in a major Vallejo trial. As a Harvard graduate and McGeorge School of Law regional trial champion, Mr. Choyce has tried hundreds of jury trials on both sides of the courtroom. Because of this rare background, he understands how insurance companies think and how to outmaneuver them when they refuse to pay fairly.

From our Del Paso Blvd office, we fight for victims of car accidents, truck collisions, motorcycle crashes, slips and falls, dog bites, and wrongful death claims throughout Sacramento County. We proudly stand by one unbreakable promise: NO FEE UNTIL WE WIN. Clients describe Mr. Choyce as compassionate, hardworking, and the attorney who consistently delivers real results. When you have been hurt, you need a fighter who has already proven that he can win.

Phone: (916) 306-0636 | Address: 1438 Del Paso Blvd, Sacramento, CA 95815

Not All California Personal Injury Lawyers Are the Same

The reality is that many attorneys lack the passion, courtroom ability, or case-building skills needed to protect injured clients. To receive the full value of your claim, you must choose a personal injury lawyer in Sacramento who genuinely puts your interests first. Although every attorney may sound qualified, the truth becomes much clearer when you ask the right questions and observe how they respond.

Key Qualities to Look For in an Accident Attorney

1. Success — Ask how much real experience the attorney has. Do they actually try cases when needed, or do they settle too quickly? Will the same attorney you meet handle the case, or will you get handed off to someone else?
2. Command of the Court — A true trial lawyer understands how to prepare, present, and win cases. Ask about successes, setbacks, and their overall courtroom philosophy. Many “trial attorneys” rarely enter an actual courtroom.
3. Common Sense — Your attorney must understand your situation and explain things in plain language. If you cannot relate to the lawyer, a jury probably cannot either.
4. People Skills — Many cases settle outside of court. Because of this, your attorney needs the ability to negotiate calmly and clearly, presenting your injuries in a persuasive and respectful way.
5. Time Management — A focused personal injury lawyer in Sacramento uses your time efficiently and moves your case forward instead of talking in circles. In contingency-fee cases, efficiency increases results.

Since personal injury law is competitive, take time to verify what an attorney tells you. Strong lawyers welcome questions, explain their process, and provide proof of experience whenever you ask.

The 13 Killer Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Personal Injury Attorney

1. How long have you been practicing law as a licensed attorney?

Experience shapes an attorney’s judgment. Over time, lawyers develop deeper insight and better strategy. Still, enthusiasm matters too. This question helps you understand both their background and their current commitment to the work.

2. Has your license ever been suspended or revoked?

If the answer is yes, the attorney should offer a clear and honest explanation. Although some situations are understandable, trust your instincts. If something feels off, consider meeting with someone else.

3. How long have you focused specifically on personal injury law?

Experience in other fields, such as patent or insurance defense, does not automatically translate into effective representation for injured plaintiffs. You want someone who has spent real time fighting for victims, not corporations.

4. What percentage of your practice involves personal injury and wrongful death cases?

It is often better to choose an attorney who specializes in injury law. Because personal injury cases demand constant focus and updated knowledge, a lawyer who spends most of their time in this field typically produces stronger results.

5. How many jury trials have you handled, and what were the outcomes?

Insurance companies track which attorneys take cases to trial. If a lawyer avoids trial, insurers may offer less money. On the other hand, an attorney with a solid trial history often receives stronger settlement offers. Be cautious of anyone who claims to have never lost a case, because that usually signals a lack of difficult trial experience.

6. Who will actually handle my case day-to-day?

A legal team may assist, but the attorney you hire should actively oversee your case. They should return your calls, know your facts, and stay involved throughout the process. If they delegate everything, consider meeting someone else.

7. How are you rated by your peers, and can you show me proof?

Some awards are meaningful, while others are simply paid listings. Because of this, ask for independent ratings, peer reviews, and recognition that reflects real achievement. Make sure the award applies to the attorney directly, not just the firm.

8. Are you an active member of any trial lawyer organizations?

Anyone can pay dues, but active participation shows commitment. Attorneys who serve on boards, contribute to committees, or support community groups such as MADD often demonstrate deeper engagement and leadership.

9. Can you provide references from former clients?

Former clients can offer valuable insight. If an attorney consistently earns their trust, those clients usually return or refer friends and family. Because of this, the absence of references may signal a problem.

10. Do you have written testimonials or online reviews?

Testimonials reveal how the attorney communicates, negotiates, and supports clients. While no lawyer pleases everyone, a complete lack of reviews should prompt further questions. Written feedback usually reflects genuine trust.

11. Have you received recognition for your work?

Although awards are not the only measure of quality, they show dedication, effort, and the willingness to take on challenging cases. Recognized attorneys often push harder to achieve full value for their clients.

12. Will you provide a full accounting of settlement funds?

Transparency matters. A trustworthy attorney gives you a clear breakdown of fees, costs, liens, and the final amount you receive. You deserve a complete and accurate accounting every time.

13. What do you need from me during the case?

A strong attorney-client relationship requires communication. Your lawyer should explain what they need from you and how you can help strengthen your case. Because your personal story matters, your attorney must take the time to understand how the accident changed your life.

Call a Personal Injury Lawyer in Sacramento at The Choyce Law Firm

If you suffered injuries in a truck accident, motorcycle crash, plane incident, or car accident, or if you face a DUI or other criminal charge, call The Choyce Law Firm immediately. Our experienced team is ready to answer your questions, explain your options, and fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.

Legal deadlines move quickly, so acting now is essential. We operate from offices in Fairfield and Sacramento, CA, and we focus exclusively on four areas: criminal defense, DUI defense, traffic ticket defense, and personal injury.

Do not wait to get answers. Call today at (707) 422-1202 or (916) 306-0636 for your free, confidential consultation with a personal injury lawyer in Sacramento who is ready to fight for you.