The field of building collapse law is replete with diverse complexities and nuances. It is, therefore, imperative that when you are embroiled in such a situation, you engage the services of a lawyer competent and knowledgeable in this field. This engagement though, should not be made rashly. It is advisable to seek answers to some vital questions from your potential legal representative, eight of which will be explored in this discourse.

Firstly, inquiring about the lawyer's experience and specialization is of paramount importance. It harks back to the economic principle of division of labor. A lawyer with a comprehensive knowledge of building collapse law, garnered from numerous years of practice, will undoubtedly be more adept at navigating the convoluted labyrinth of regulations and codes than a general practitioner. This concept draws from the economic theory of comparative advantage which posits that resources, including human skills, are best utilized in areas of their greatest proficiency for maximum advantage.

After confirming expertise, the second question to probe pertains to the lawyer’s strategy for your case. Law, much like chess, involves strategic planning and foresight. Understanding your counsel’s tactical approach – whether he/she prefers negotiation over litigation, or vice versa, provides an insight into the trajectory of your case. This also allows for a level of tactical synergy between you and your counsel, promoting harmonious and effective collaboration.

Thirdly, understanding the cost implication of hiring the lawyer is essential. The legal profession operates on a fee structure fundamentally different from other sectors. Legal fees could be either fixed, hourly, or contingent. A lack of understanding of the financial implications of these different fee structures could potentially result in financial surprises. Thus, it is essential to have a clear and precise understanding of the fee structure your lawyer operates under.

The fourth question to ask is about the likely duration of your case. Legal proceedings are often complex and time-consuming, influenced by factors such as the court's caseload, the complexity of the case, and the strategies of the parties involved. Your lawyer, drawing from their experience, should be able to give a realistic estimation of the case duration.

Fifthly, you should inquire about the lawyer's past successes in similar cases. Law, much like mathematics, is built on precedents. Hence, a lawyer's past success in similar cases is a strong indicator of their competence. However, this should not be the only factor to consider, as each case possesses its unique attributes and challenges.

The sixth question to probe is about your role in the case. Law, unlike science, is not a spectator sport. Your role in your case is pivotal to its success. Hence, understanding your responsibilities and obligations is crucial.

Seventhly, you should ask about the potential challenges in your case. Law, like life, is fraught with uncertainties. It is therefore essential you understand the possible difficulties and prepare for them.

Lastly, it is vital to ask about the likely outcomes of your case. While it is impossible to predict with absolute certainty the outcome of a case (a concept related to the statistical theory of probability), a competent lawyer should be able to provide a well-informed expectation.

In conclusion, engaging a building collapse lawyer should be done thoughtfully, armed with the right questions. These eight questions provide you with a robust framework to ensure you engage a competent lawyer who can best serve your interests.