Q: How to hire a lawyer for hourly advice on personal injury case?
I'm currently a Plaintiff in a Personal Injury suit that's been on the judge's trial calendar for almost 3 years. I initially hired a lawyer, however, since motions halted pending decisions from the Judge (Summary judgement, and Motion for Bifurcation from Defendant), I'm currently Pro Se to mitigate costs.
My question is: I want to know the best way to have another lawyer review and advise on the best course of action, without needing to retain them as permanent counsel. Should I simply contact firms for an hourly rate, or is this frowned upon in the legal profession? TIA
A: Getting rid of your contingency lawyer didn't "mitigate" your costs. It, in essence, will dramatically increase your costs if you now hire a lawyer on an hourly basis. I think it's very risky for you to be pro per with some of the things that you claim have gone on in your case. Without knowing more it's hard to say. You probably could hire a lawyer on an hourly basis - but expect to front a big retainer and then be charged hourly for whatever work is remaining. And that could be a large number. Does your prior attorney have a lien on your case? That is something else to factor in. Contact a few local attorneys and ask them what their hourly rate is and then decide. But you really should have an attorney on your side.
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