If you or a loved one suffers from a mental health condition and needs to hire a lawyer, it is smart to do some research. These 10 questions can tell you more about your lawyer’s experience, their approach to cases like yours, and your legal options.
While there are many fine attorneys, not all of them have the experience and knowledge to handle complex mental health cases. Asking the right questions can help you decide if a lawyer is a good fit for you.
Communication between attorneys and their clients is extremely important. A Los Angeles mental health lawyer can help. Here are a few questions to ask to ensure that you and your mental health lawyer are on the same page.
1. What Is Your Experience With Mental-health Related Cases?
It is wise to look for a Los Angeles mental health attorney with years of experience helping clients who have mental illnesses. They will have an understanding of mental health conditions and how they impact a person’s life.
In California and most other areas, specific regulations can come into play for mental health cases. A skilled attorney with a mental health background understands the laws that apply to your case.
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2. Have You Ever Represented Someone With My Diagnosis?
It is helpful if your lawyer has worked with people with similar diagnoses. They may better understand your situation and your challenges.
However, just because they haven’t doesn’t mean they can’t handle your case. A good lawyer will be able to learn and adapt. Consider their overall experience and track record when making your decision.
3. What Is Your Approach In Cases Involving Mental Health Issues?
Gaining an understanding of the strategies your lawyer will use to manage your case will give you a good idea if they are the right fit for you. It can give you a solid understanding of what a mental health lawyer does.
When you ask your mental health lawyer questions about their approach and philosophy, it can also help you understand the levels of compassion and empathy you can expect from your attorney.
4. How Do You Advocate for Your Clients With Mental Health Issues?
As your lawyer, the person you choose to represent you will literally speak on your behalf at times. Understanding how they view this role can help you decide if they are a good fit for your condition and comfort level.
You may also inquire about their approach in case you are no longer able to speak for yourself and what avenue they would take to ensure you have appropriate representation.
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5. How Do You Communicate With Your Mental Health Clients?
Communication is important in any lawyer-client relationship, and even moreso when mental health concerns enter the picture. You want to ensure your lawyer understands your preferred communication methods and the best ways to relay information to you.
Ask your mental health lawyer questions about what role your family can play if you wish them to and how your lawyer might rely on them for communication.
6. What Are My Legal Rights and Options?
Your lawyer should be able to explain your legal rights along with any statutes or regulations that apply specifically to mental health conditions. Your condition may also entitle you to specific considerations during court appearances or hearings.
This can get complicated, which is one more reason it is important to have a skilled mental health lawyer represent you. They’ll know the law and your rights.
7. What Role Will Healthcare Providers Play?
Ask how your lawyer intends to involve your current healthcare providers in your case. Or if they intend to seek out other experts to establish the facts about your diagnosis. They might send you for additional tests or consultations if it helps your case.
It is important to create a clear picture of your condition, but you need to be comfortable with their method. Be sure to ask your mental health attorney questions about your concerns.
8. What Is the Outlook for My Case?
While no attorney can control how the legal process may play out, your lawyer should be able to give you an idea of the timeline for your case. They can also advise you on any potential pitfalls along the way and how they may alter your expectations.
Knowing what to anticipate in the future can help take away some of the anxiety and stress that comes naturally with a legal case.
9. How Will You Protect My Privacy During the Legal Process?
While your mental health diagnosis will play a role in your case, and a lawyer can subpoena your mental health records, that doesn’t mean all of your medical information is fair game for anyone interested. You still have the right to certain privacies as they are provided under the law.
Your attorney should protect your information in accordance with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and other applicable regulations. Ask your mental health attorney about their strategy for making sure your medical information is only shared as needed.
10. Are there Alternative Solutions and Settlement Options?
Your lawyer will give you their opinion on your best course of action, but it may not be right for you. Make sure you understand all possible avenues your case may take. And be sure your attorney understands your comfort level with different possible approaches.
Ask Us Questions for Your Mental Health Lawyer
Handling cases involving mental health requires a strong understanding of applicable laws and a compassionate approach. Asking the right questions can help you find the right lawyer.
You’ll want to know about their experience with mental health cases and their strategy for your specific situation. You want to be sure they understand your condition and are willing to act in your best interest at all times.
At Simmrin Law Group, we have the experience and knowledge to advocate for your mental health needs and fight for your rights. Contact us today for a free consultation. We’re in this together.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form