When you need legal assistance, one of the most important decisions you will make is which lawyer to choose. This is not a decision to be taken lightly – your choice could mean the difference between success and failure in court. So, what should you keep in mind when making this decision? This blog post will give you some things to think about.
Relevant experience
First and foremost, you need to make sure that the lawyer you choose is experienced in the area of law that pertains to your case. Make sure to ask about a potential lawyer’s experience during your consultation. You should also inquire about the amount of experience the lawyer has specifically with cases like yours. This means that if you are involved in a tow truck accident, you should not hire a criminal lawyer. Similarly, there is no use in hiring a criminal defense lawyer if you are going through a divorce, for example. If they have handled many cases similar to yours, they will likely know what to expect and how to best proceed. Also, keep in mind that just because a lawyer is experienced, that does not mean they are good at their job. Make sure to ask for references from past clients and do your research before making a decision.
As much as possible, you also need to choose a lawyer who practices in the jurisdiction where your case will be tried. Different states have different laws, so it is important to choose a lawyer who is familiar with the laws of the state in which you will be going to court. This may seem like an obvious point, but many people make the mistake of assuming that all lawyers know all the laws. This is simply not the case. Even if a lawyer practices in multiple states, they may not be equally familiar with the laws of each state.
Credentials
In these days of easy internet access, it is not difficult to do a bit of research on a potential lawyer. Check for reviews and testimonials from past clients. Are they accredited by any organizations? What do their peers think of them? You can also check with your state’s bar association to see if the lawyer has ever been disciplined. All of this information can give you a good idea of what to expect from a potential lawyer. If you discover that a lawyer has been disciplined, that does not necessarily mean you should not hire them, but it is something to keep in mind. In this case, consider how they handled the situation and whether or not you feel comfortable with them.
Communication style
It is also important to make sure that you are comfortable communicating with your lawyer. This is someone who you will be sharing sensitive information with, so it is important that you feel like you can trust them. During your consultation, pay attention to the way the lawyer communicates with you. Do they seem like they are truly listening to you? Or do they seem like they are rushing you off the phone? Do they answer your questions thoroughly, or do they brush you off? It is important to feel like your lawyer is taking the time to understand your case and is invested in getting you the best possible outcome. It may be difficult to bring up certain topics with your lawyer, so you need to make sure that you are comfortable with them from the start.
Fees
Of course, you also need to make sure that you can afford the lawyer’s fees. Ask about their fee structure during your consultation. Some may even offer a contingency fee, which means they only get paid if they win your case. If you decide to go with a contingency fee, make sure that you understand all the terms of the agreement before signing anything. You should also make sure to ask about any other potential fees that may come up during your case. For example, some lawyers may charge for copies of documents or travel expenses. These fees can quickly add up, so it is important to be informed. Make sure to ask about all of this upfront so there are no surprises later on.
Choosing a lawyer is a big decision, but if you keep these things in mind, you will be well on your way to finding the right one for you. Rest assured that with a little bit of research, you will be able to find a lawyer who is perfect for your needs. So, don’t wait – get started today!
