How to Find a Good Lawyer to Represent You

Because it can sometimes be difficult to distinguish a good lawyer from a mediocre one, it is important that you do your research thoroughly. If you are going to trust someone to represent your interests, you want to be sure you have the best possible lawyer for the job.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Ask close friends or family members for a recommendation. If possible, get a lawyer to recommend attorneys who are respected in the field in which you are seeking representation.
2. Check with your state's bar association to be sure the lawyer you are considering is licensed to practice in your state and that she has not been disbarred or suspended.
3. Set up a face-to-face interview. Ask questions to determine the lawyer's knowledge, trustworthiness, experience and personal style. Ask about costs and billing. Determine if the lawyer is willing to put the fee agreement in writing. Most lawyers do this routinely, and you should not hire an attorney who will not do so.
4. The lawyer's office can also give you an indication of the kind of service you will receive. Was his staff helpful and polite? Was it difficult to arrange a meeting? How does the attorney treat his own staff?
5. If the firm has a number of lawyers, make sure you know whether you will be dealing with the attorney with whom you are meeting or one of her partners or associates. If it is someone else, be sure to meet him before retaining the firm.
6. The attorney should be interested in your case and spend at least as much time listening as talking. Beware of lawyers who spend too much time selling themselves to you.

Tips & Warnings

• The lawyer-client relationship needs to work at both a personal level and a professional level.
• If you use the Internet as a resource, be sure to do thorough research. Don't just hire the first name that pops up on a search.