How to Hire an Employment Lawyer

Workplace discrimination, wage and hour disputes and other employment issues can sometimes escalate into legal disputes. Hiring an employment lawyer to protect your interests can take some homework. Here are some tips to help you choose an employment lawyer who will meet your needs.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Talk to your family and friends to see if they know of an employment lawyer they could refer to you. Co-workers who may have had employment law disputes are also good sources for referrals. Ask for detailed information about their experience with the employment lawyer they refer to you.
2. Contact your state Bar Association. State Bar Associations usually operate a referral system where they can provide callers with the names of attorneys having experience in a particular field. Request the names of those lawyers in your area that specialize in employment law.
3. Call a couple of employment lawyers who received the most favorable recommendations and arrange a meeting. Be sure to find out whether you will have to pay for the initial consultation.
4. Ask those lawyers you meet with about their employment law experience, specifically in the area that is of interest to you. See if they'll give you names of previous clients you could contact for additional information. Ask about their involvement in employment law activities, such as legal seminars and professional organizations.
5. Determine costs. Hiring an employment lawyer can be expensive. Make sure you question the employment lawyers you meet with regarding their hourly rates or whether they ever take cases on a contingency basis. Request an estimate of the fees and costs.
6. Trust your instincts. Your employment lawyer should listen to your issues carefully, be knowledgeable and compassionate and put you at ease. The more comfortable you feel with your employment lawyer, the more likely you are to establish a productive working relationship.

Tips & Warnings

• It is a good idea to confirm with your state Bar Association that the employment lawyer you hire has not been the subject of any ethical complaints.