Searching for the perfect attorney can feel disheartening. Many different niches and specialties exist, which can make the search even more difficult.
Finding the right attorney does not have to give you a headache. By narrowing down your search field and knowing exactly what you are looking for, you can find the best attorney for you based on your legal needs.
Here is how to determine which attorney is the right one for you:
What is the Nature of Your Case?
As many different practice areas exist in legal profession, one of the most important parts of your search is to find the right lawyer in the right area of law. Before you begin looking for a lawyer, determine what is the nature of your case. Are you looking to get a divorce? Were you injured in a car accident? These details matter. Hiring a lawyer who specializes in divorce and family law to handle your personal injury claim could do more harm than good.
The following practice areas can be chosen from to help you narrow down which attorney you need:
- Personal injury
- Immigration
- Contract
- Tax
- Family and divorce
- Criminal defense
- Employment
- Intellectual property
- Real estate
- Estate planning including trusts and wills
- And more
Ask Friends and Family for Referrals
Consider asking close friends and family members for a referral to an attorney. Asking the people around you if they have any recommendations or referrals for a lawyer could lead you to a lawyer who can effectively meet your legal needs and comes with the “seal of approval” from a friend or loved one.
Word of mouth is strong, including online reviews. Compile a list of attorney names and offices and begin your own online research. This process will help you decide which one is the perfect match for you and your unique case.
Look for Winning Qualities
It is imperative to find a lawyer who boosts winning qualities. Not only is professionalism important, but overall attitude regarding your case is one of the most important factors to consider. Any lawyer who appears uninterested or acts rudely should not be considered to represent you.
The most important values to look for in an attorney include but are not limited to:
- Years of proven experience
- Exceptional interpersonal communication skills
- Formal education and credibility
- Dependable and reliable
- Compassionate and empathetic
- Interested in helping you
- Problem-solving capabilities
Equally as important or the not-so-appealing qualities that should instantly be a red flag on your attorney search. They include:
- Tardiness
- Procrastination
- Poor reviews
- Only interested in money
- Poor interpersonal communication skills
- Hidden costs
- Poor track record
- High case loss
Search Attorney Directory
Use the internet to your advantage as the world of information is right at our fingertips. First start by researching the type of attorney you are looking for. Next, you can utilize online databases where you can read client reviews, discover networks of attorneys in your area and desired niche, and all the information you need about their legal services.
Whether it be Injurity, Legal Zoom, or other proven attorney databases, these online directories are extremely helpful. You can also contact your state or local attorney bar association for their directory list of respective attorneys in your area.
Review Attorney Websites
After you have determined which niche you need and a list of prospective attorneys, it is time to research and review their websites. The most important thing to look for is general information about the law firm and the lawyer and their specific legal niche.
Check out their FAQs section or their blog posts. This information helps showcase their credibility and authority in their respective field. If you do not find this information, move on to the next attorney on your list. Be sure to check out their social media accounts as well to see how they interact with their clients and the public.
The Question Phase
Once you have narrowed down your prospective lawyers, contact their office. This phone interview can be conducted or you can make an in-person appointment.
Your next step is to ask essential questions that will the best choice for an attorney quite obvious. The necessary questions to ask include:
- Do you offer free consultations?
- What legal fees are to be expected i.e. contingency, processing, consultation, retainer, and more
- What is your experience?
- How many clients have you represented?
- Have you ever received disciplinary action?
- What is your success rate?
- How long have you been practicing as a lawyer?
- How many cases like mine have you won?
- What is your current caseload?
- Will there be another attorney on board to represent me?
Make Sure You Feel Comfortable
The old notion of making sure you feel comfortable is crucial to selecting the right attorney for you. If at any point you feel uncomfortable with the attorney you are speaking with, do not move forward with them.
Your instincts should be adhered to as something may be amiss. You will be working many hours with this person, so feeling comfortable right from the start is absolutely imperative. Observe the attorney’s behavior and conduct as you ask questions. Do they hesitate? Do they appear knowledgeable? Do they speak too much “legalese” to the point you cannot understand what they are saying? If you are uncomfortable, the entire legal process will become more of a nightmare.
Bottom Line
When searching for a perfect attorney, ask your friends and loved ones for referrals. Online attorney directories are also good resources for helping locate attorneys in your area and in the legal specialty applicable to your case.
Look for winning qualities that match your values and showcase their expertise in the legal field. Make a list of your top contenders and research their websites and social media accounts. The right attorney will stand out and be ready for your call!
