Intake and conflicts review
A firm may gather basic facts, check conflicts, identify jurisdiction, and decide whether to offer representation. An inquiry is not necessarily an acceptance. Ask how the firm confirms the relationship and handles urgent preservation or timing questions.
Investigation and treatment records
Work may include reports, records, photographs, witness information, insurance documents, and expert input. Medical care should follow clinical needs, not a content checklist. Sequence and duration vary.
Claim, negotiation, or filing
A matter may involve insurer communications, a demand, negotiation, an administrative step, or a lawsuit. Some steps overlap and some never occur. Filing rules and deadlines are jurisdiction-specific.
Litigation stages
A lawsuit may include pleadings, written discovery, document exchange, depositions, motions, expert work, mediation, and trial preparation. Courts and cases manage these stages differently.
Resolution and accounting
Before settlement becomes final, ask about the release, fees, expenses, liens or bills, timing, and written distribution statement. Trial and appeal create different decisions. A lawyer can explain the options for the matter.