Choosing an attorney to represent your case can be a challenging task that requires a lot of patience and research to do right. There are numerous factors to consider before hiring such as the attorney’s education, expert level, familiarity with cases like yours, payment, strategies, etc. It is essential to understand that you don’t need to make compromises in a rush to find the right lawyer. A well-thought-out decision will be much more advantageous to your situation.
While the list of things to consider is endless, there are a few things that need to be taken care of first and foremost. So here are some helpful tips that can guide your attorney-choosing process.
1. Track Record
A lawyer’s track record of cases handled and won is your golden ticket to finding the perfect lawyer. A track record will give you clear insight into what type of cases an attorney takes on. It will give you perspective on what their method of approaching an issue is and whether that method has been useful for them. A good lawyer not only knows what they’re doing but simultaneously puts their client’s interests first. They need to be firm in their approach but open to different possibilities. Choose an attorney who will present to you solutions that you’re comfortable with.
2. Research
Research is key to figuring out what type of attorney you want to hire. Based on the type of case you’re dealing with, there are many factors that need to be considered before hiring a lawyer. Conduct thorough research filtering out potential attorneys you could work with. Understand their skills and expertise. Take a look at their website and social media. This will give you a general idea of their value system and the way they practice law. Check online reviews to see previous clients’ experiences with working with the attorney. Overall positive reviews are a good indicator of credibility. Check their credentials, experience level, educational background, etc.
3. Recommendations
Another way to find a good attorney to handle your case is through word of mouth. Ask people who have dealt with similar issues as you for recommendations. Chances are that they have a few suggestions. Asking trusted sources, such as family and friends is a great way to cast a wide net of potential lawyers to work with.
If you worked with lawyers before but from a different specialty, consider asking them for recommendations. With their extensive connections, these experts can help find the right lawyer for you. Condense your list of lawyers to one of 3 to 5 names and do a bit more research on each one to figure out who you’d like to work with.
4. Consultation
Once you shortlist a few lawyers, do a brief consultation with each of them to get an idea of their personality and ways of working. Most attorneys are open to having a brief consultation without any charges.
Note their tone, politeness, willingness to work with you, and flexibility during the meeting. We recommend you schedule an in-person meeting so that you are able to get an insight into their work environment and whether the location is easily accessible to you. Be prepared to answer any questions about your case and make clear your expectations from the collaboration.
5. Ask the Right Questions
This adds to the consultation aspect. When you schedule a meeting with a lawyer, make sure you have a list of questions prepared to cover all bases of the collaboration. Ask about their opinion on your case, whether it is strong enough and what it’s worth. Do not hesitate with your questions and put everything on the table so that expectations are clearly presented. Make sure to ask about costs upfront and their confidence in being able to help you.
6. Payment
Two other major factors to take into account are payment agreements and budget. No matter how good a lawyer is, you need to think of your budget before hiring them. It’s no secret that the process of resolving a legal case is an expensive one, and the additional costs of hiring a lawyer aren’t to be ignored. Plan your budget and look for a lawyer who is willing to work with it. Read your payment agreement thoroughly, and ask about contingency fees, hourly rates, flat fees, and retainer rates.
Take your time to choose the right attorney. It is better to spend some extra time and money finding the right lawyer than to make compromises and end up with someone that can’t do justice to your case or is unable to handle it efficiently. So, be sure to keep our tips in mind that will certainly help you find the right attorney for you.
