How to Find a Family Lawyer for a Family Member

Set up an interview with the potential lawyer.

According to Lawyers.com, the median hourly rate for a lawyer in the United States, as of 2011, is $284. The rate may be higher or lower depending on the lawyer, the size of the law firm and other factors, and many lawyers typically ask for a retainer fee up front to secure their services. You can find a lawyer for your family member through the state bar association, referrals and by interviewing potential attorneys that can help you with your situation.

Difficulty:

Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Clarify your family member's legal issues and needs. Complicated financial issues requires a lawyer with expertise in tax law, bankruptcy and similar issues. An elderly family member may require legal assistance from a lawyer who specializes in health care issues and has experience dealing with health care organizations, Social Security and other medical-related matters.

2. Ask for referrals from family members, colleagues and acquaintances. The most reliable referrals come from people who have dealt with similar experiences and issues. The referrals should provide you with a list of potential lawyers and a list of things to look for, as well as things to avoid. The advice of someone who has had unpleasant dealings with lawyers is informative and can guide you in making a well-informed decision.

3. Contact the bar association in your state and ask if they have a lawyer referral service. Explain the situation and the type of lawyer that you need. All states have bar associations.

4. Set up interviews with several lawyers. The lawyer will be interested in talking to you and finding out the details concerning the family member. Use the interview to inquire about the lawyer's background, experience and success rate. Determine if the lawyer is a good fit for your family member and sensitive to your family member's needs. Ask the lawyer for written information that clearly outlines the lawyer's policies, costs and payment options.

5. Check the lawyer's credentials and past with the bar association in your state. The state bar association will tell you if the lawyer is licensed in your state and if he has ever been subject to disciplinary action.

References

• Help For Single Mother: Tips For Finding Bankruptcy Lawyers For Low Income Familes
• Help With Elders: Finding A Lawyer
• Eddy Articles: Tips To Finding Good Lawyers

Resources

• Martindale.com: Find A Lawyer Or Law Firm
• Lawyers.com: How and How Much Do Lawyers Charge?
• HG Legal Directories: Bar Associations In North America