A personal injury referral checklist
Start with the case stage, help requested, evidence available, and upcoming dates. Arrange a secure channel before sharing confidential materials.
Start with one page.
Summarize the incident, injuries, location, liability issues, coverage, and settlement posture. State whether you seek full handling, litigation help, or trial counsel. Flag missing information.
Match the records to the stage.
Pre-litigation: reports, photos, witnesses, insurance letters, and medical records.
Litigation: pleadings, orders, discovery, depositions, experts, and material rulings.
Trial: witnesses, exhibits, evidentiary issues, and unfinished preparation. Include a dates list with its source documents; receiving counsel should verify the deadlines.
Protect the file.
Coordinate conflicts review, permitted disclosures, client authorization, and secure transfer. Confirm recipients and access settings. Keep confidential information out of a general inquiry form.
ABA Model Rule 1.6 addresses confidentiality and safeguards. It is a model rule; check the governing state rules and any protective orders.
Common questions
Do I need a complete file before asking about a referral?
No. Start with the case stage, the assistance requested, and relevant timing. Identify missing records and arrange the next steps for a substantive review.
What changes when a case is close to trial?
The review should make the preparation window and remaining work especially clear, including witnesses, exhibits, experts, pending motions, and scheduled dates.
Official sources
General information, not legal advice. Laws and deadlines depend on your circumstances.