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Step 1
Finding a Good Lawyer:
Good lawyers have been in practice for a while. First, you want a lawyer that has been in practice for at least 15 years. Lawyers don't really get good until they have a significant amount of time under their belt. Next, you want a lawyer who graduated from a top law school. It is difficult to get into a good law school. The truth of the matter is that the brightest and hardest working lawyers went to the best schools. Don't hire a schlump lawyer who went to a second rate school. They went there because they didn't have the same work ethic and weren't as smart and talented as the good lawyers. -
Step 2
Finding a Low Cost Lawyer:
Now that you know the criteria for a good lawyer, you need one that isn't going to nickel and dime you to death. Look for lawyers in smaller firms or sole practitioners that have been in the same office for many years. Typically sole practitioner lawyers in small offices have the best fee structures because they have the lowest overhead. The sole practitioner can adjust your fees without input from partners and managers. In a big firm with fancy offices, you are paying for their ridiculous overhead. When you have issues with your fees, the big firm guys make excuses about "firm policies" and "greedy partners". Stick with the little guy - you get personal service at better prices. -
Step 3
Checking the Credentials:
Once you found a lawyer that you like, check their credentials with the State Bar Association. In California you can check out any lawyer's credentials at http://members.calbar.ca.gov/search/member.aspx Simply type the members name into the search box and you will get their school information and date they became a lawyer. Most importantly, you will find out if they have a record of public discipline. If they have been disciplined, run........ -
Step 4
So, Who is the Best Lawyer?
In my opinion there are only a few lawyers that I know of who fit the bill. In California, my favorite lawyer is Stephen Dial. He has the requisite credentials and has been in practice for over 25 years. He also won't take your case unless he thinks that you have a good case. If you are looking for a lawyer, I would find one like Mr. Dial. Check out his website and information., then find a lawyer in your State with similar qualifications.
I will provide a link to his website in the resource section below.
