How to Get Your Money's Worth When Hiring a Lawyer

Lawyers don't come cheap, so hire one that can get the job done right. An honest, competent lawyer keeps expenses down and brings in a good settlement.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Telephones
• Paper And Pencils

1. Ask for recommendations from family, friends and co-workers.

2. Call several law offices to compare rates. Ask whether they charge a flat fee or hourly rate.

3. Ask whether fees are negotiable.

4. Determine whether the attorney or the practice is experienced in the legal service you need.

5. Ask how long it will take to complete your case.

6. Find out from personal injury lawyers what their contingency fee is.

7. Determine what the attorney or the practice charges for telephone calls, copies and electronic research.

8. Ask whether they submit a time diary with the bill. Avoid hiring a lawyer who refuses to do so.

9. Make a decision based on answers to the above questions.

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid trading quality for low rates. Inexperienced lawyers might charge less but may also negotiate a lower settlement.
• Get great referrals from lawyer friends.
• Lawyer referral services are listed in the yellow pages and on the Internet.
• Rates vary by location. A city lawyer may charge more than a rural lawyer.
• Get all agreements in writing.
• Steer clear of large law teams. They serve corporations and people with million-dollar lawsuits.
• Review time diaries carefully. Ask questions. This encourages your lawyer to record hours honestly.
• Watch out for enormous contingency fees. Fees over 30 percent are suspect.

on 11/22/2005 Don't give an attorney a large amount of money up front. If he asks for money before you even speak with him, you don't want him. And if an attorney is not doing what he said he'd do or doesn't seem to understand your problem, cut your losses and get out!