Choosing a Contractor PTSD Lawyer: Questions to Ask

Look for experience with the relevant system

A broad personal-injury practice does not necessarily mean regular work with Defense Base Act claims. Ask whether the lawyer handles DBA matters and has experience evaluating psychological injuries. Find out who would actually review your records and manage the case.

Verify the attorney’s license and public disciplinary information with the relevant state authority. Ask how the lawyer’s experience relates to your employment and circumstances. A large advertised recovery in a different case cannot predict what your own evidence will show or whether benefits will be payable.

Expect questions before conclusions

An initial review should consider who employed you, where you worked, the type of assignment, the medical history, and any notices or claims already made. A responsible answer may be that a particular document or date needs investigation.

Be cautious about a promised result offered before that review. Ask which issues appear straightforward and which are uncertain. You should leave with a clearer understanding of what needs to be checked, rather than simply a confident label placed on an incomplete account.

Ask how sensitive information will be handled

Explain any practical difficulties with appointments, detailed discussions, concentration, or communication. Ask whether the office can use shorter calls, written follow-up, an interpreter, or another reasonable format. If you want someone to join a meeting, discuss their role and possible confidentiality implications first.

• Who is the regular point of contact?
• How are urgent deadlines and important decisions communicated?
• How should medical and employment records be sent securely?
• What information will be shared with other claim participants?
• Can I request a written summary of next steps?

These questions concern the working relationship. You do not need to give a detailed trauma account simply to ask how a law office operates.

Understand fee approval and possible expenses

Attorney fees in the Longshore and DBA framework are subject to approval under the applicable rules. Do not assume an ordinary contingency percentage or a slogan about free representation tells you exactly how the arrangement works. Ask for a written explanation of the proposed terms.

Clarify who may be responsible for fees or costs in different circumstances, how expert or records expenses are handled, and what happens if the engagement ends. Ask what work is included, such as initial claim assistance, disputed proceedings, settlement review, or further review of an order. An attorney should explain the arrangement without promising that you can never face a cost.

Confirm acceptance and immediate responsibilities

Before assuming the lawyer is handling the claim, confirm that the engagement has been accepted and any required agreement is complete. Identify upcoming dates, documents the office needs, and actions that remain yours to take.

Keep a copy of the engagement terms and a short contact log. If you are still comparing lawyers, be clear about that. Do not delay urgent advice while trying to find a perfect match; ask each office whether it can assess immediate timing concerns and act within the time available.