Effective communication forms the foundation of a successful attorney-client relationship in personal injury cases. Your lawyer should explain complex legal concepts in plain language you can understand without using excessive legal jargon. They should establish clear expectations about how often you’ll receive updates and through which channels, whether phone calls, emails, or in-person meetings. Response time matters significantly; while lawyers are busy, they or their staff should acknowledge your communications within 24-48 hours. Look for attorneys who provide direct phone numbers or email addresses rather than forcing all communication through gatekeepers. During your initial consultation, assess whether they listen actively to your concerns and answer questions thoroughly rather than rushing through the meeting. The lawyer should be accessible during critical moments in your case, such as before important deadlines or settlement negotiations. They should also designate a specific paralegal or case manager as your point of contact for routine questions. Ask about their policy for keeping clients informed about case developments, court dates, and settlement offers. Some lawyers use client portals or case management systems that allow you to track your case progress online. Avoid lawyers who seem too busy to give your case personal attention or who delegate all client communication to inexperienced staff members.