Instructing a Solicitor in Ireland

Information

How to contact a solicitor

People usually choose a solicitor because of a personal recommendation, because the solicitor's office is in their area or because they saw an advertisement. It is usual to first telephone for an appointment with a solicitor.

In some family situations, it may be necessary to consider separate legal representation for each spouse or partner.

Information a solicitor needs

If you have been involved in an accident you can that caused you personal injuries, the solicitor will need to know;

• All the facts surrounding the accident

For example, if was an accident in the workplace, you will need to explain what you were doing at the time of the accident, who was in charge and who witnessed the accident.

If the accident was a road traffic accident, you will need to clearly describe where you were coming from or going to, what the weather conditions were like, what was the sequence of events leading up to the accident, whether you were wearing a seat-belt at the time of the accident, what markings and signs were on the road, who was the investigating Garda and what were the names and addresses of any witnesses.

• All of the injuries you suffered as a result of the accident

When describing your injuries, start with your sensations and feelings at the time of and immediately after the accident. Then explain whether, when and how you went to hospital.

Describe all injuries that you suffered, whether they were physical, psychological or emotional, and all the symptoms including sleep-loss, nightmares. List all of the doctors, hospitals, physiotherapists and counsellors (if any) that you attended after the accident. If you already had injuries before the accident, you must also tell your solicitor about these. Describe all of the treatments and medications you received as a result of the accident and any prognosis that has been made.

• All of the expenses which the accident caused you to incur

Calculate any loss of earnings because you could not go to work and medical expenses like medication costs and doctors' bills. You should also include related expenses such as bus and taxi-fares if you are unable to drive as a result of the accident.

Other types of claims require similar attention to detail in describing what exactly happened. In a slander or libel case, it will be necessary to relate how your reputation or good name has suffered. In a land case, a detailed description of the history of the land in question and how the dispute arose will be necessary.