Personal Injury Client Intake: Essential Questions to Ask
Capture the right information from day one with this guide to personal injury intake best practices.
Personal injury cases are won or lost based on the information gathered during the initial intake. The right questions at the right time help attorneys evaluate case viability, identify potential defendants, and preserve critical evidence. A thorough intake process also builds client trust and sets expectations for the litigation journey ahead.
Must-Ask Intake Questions
Every personal injury intake should cover the basics: date, time, and location of the incident; a detailed description of what happened; names and contact information for witnesses; the at-fault party's information including insurance details; the client's injuries and medical treatment to date; and whether a police report was filed. Beyond these fundamentals, ask about pre-existing conditions, prior claims or lawsuits, lost wages, and the impact of injuries on daily activities. These details become essential during case valuation and settlement negotiations.
Equally important is what the client should not do. Advise them during intake to avoid posting about the incident on social media, giving recorded statements to the opposing insurer, or signing any documents without attorney review. Early guidance during intake protects the case and demonstrates the value of legal representation from the very first interaction.