How often should you hear from your personal injury attorney?
You should hear from your lawyer whenever something important happens. There is no fixed schedule that fits every case. The pace depends on the stage of your case and how fast the other side moves. The most important thing is that you know who to ask and how you will be updated.
What kind of updates should you expect?
Updates on any significant event. For example:
- A settlement offer from the other side
- A hearing or court date you need to attend
- A request for information or documents from the defense
- A deposition, where you answer questions under oath
- An order to attend mediation
You should also get a basic status update when you ask, even if the answer is that the case is waiting on someone else.
Why might communication be busy at the start?
The early weeks involve more back and forth. Your lawyer needs your medical records and bills, insurance information, photos and other proof. They may ask you to see a doctor for an evaluation or fill out forms. After that, communication often slows while the sides trade documents and negotiate.
Is a quiet stretch a bad sign?
Not always. The system can move slowly, especially when the other side is late with documents. A few quiet weeks may simply mean you are waiting. If it worries you, send a short message and ask what is pending.
Who will you talk to?
It depends on the firm. Some firms use case managers for day-to-day updates, and the lawyer steps in for key decisions. Ask early who your point of contact is. Pick a firm whose style fits you, whether you want regular check-ins or only calls when something changes.
What is your part in communication?
It goes both ways. Tell your lawyer right away about:
- New or worsening symptoms
- New treatment or bills
- Time missed from work
- Calls or letters from insurers
- Anything you post or say publicly about the case
A change in your health can change how your claim is handled.
What if no one returns your calls?
Raise it directly. Ask for a time to talk and what response you can expect. If the problem continues, you may have good reasons to consider a different lawyer. See switching attorneys for how that works.
What should you ask at the start?
- Who will be my main contact?
- How will you update me, and how often?
- What is the easiest way to reach you?
Talk to us for a free case review and ask us how we handle updates.
Related questions
Is it normal to go weeks without an update?
Sometimes. Insurance companies and courts can be slow. If you are worried, ask your lawyer what is pending and what to expect.
What should I tell my lawyer without being asked?
Any change in your health, new treatment, new bills, missed work or contact from the other side's insurer.
Can I switch lawyers if no one answers me?
You can. If communication keeps breaking down, you may have good reason to look at other options.