There are over 804,000 lawyers practicing in the United States. That means there’s a lawyer for roughly every 400 people! With this many candidates, the choice can be overwhelming.
Add to this the fact that we need a lawyer because we’re facing a tough situation. The pressure you feel could cause you to go for the first lawyer, rather than the best lawyer.
But relax, we’ve got you covered. We’ve created a guide that’ll help you separate the best from the rest. Read on to find out how to choose the best lawyer for you.
Go for Experience
Lawyers usually specialize in one or two areas of law. Choose a lawyer who specializes in your particular legal problem. Don’t be afraid to ask them about their experience if you’re unsure.
For example, if you get injured at work, choose an attorney for workers comp. They specialize in this field and can help you get the right compensation and disability benefits.
It’s true; everybody’s got to start somewhere. But don’t let yourself be a guinea pig for an untested lawyer. The best attorney for you is one with strong – and successful – experience in case litigation.
Don’t be afraid to ask them about their courtroom success rate. The best attorneys will be very happy to share their stats.
Also, make sure the lawyer you hire is actually the one who will represent you. It’s not uncommon to have your first meeting with an experienced lawyer, only for a less experienced lawyer to handle the case on a day-to-day basis.
Evaluate Their Communication
Your first interview with the prospective attorney can tell you a lot.
Pay particular attention to their communication style, including how well they listen. Are they careful to fully understand the facts of your case? Remember, this person’s going to be your spokesperson in tough negotiations!
Lawyers need to be excellent communicators. They need to explain complex matters in a clear way to you, and they need to communicate constructively with your legal opponent. During the discovery phase, they need to communicate effectively to get the information you need.
They should also keep you up to date with developments in your case. How can you find out how effective they are at communicating?
Read Reviews
You can tell a lot about an attorney from their online reviews. The best law firm for you is one that takes its reviews seriously.
Are there lots of complaints with no response from the law firm? That’s not a great sign. The best law firms take the time to follow up on negative comments.
Also, what themes emerge from the reviews? You can usually get a good idea of the strengths and weaknesses of the attorney.
Consider the Cost
It’s easy to get enticed by a no-win-no-fee offer from a lawyer. But if you do win, exactly how large will their fee be?
Lawyers’ fees vary wildly. The important thing is that you are happy with the fee structure and rates before you begin. Never proceed if you have misgivings about how much it will cost.
Find the Best Lawyer for Your Case
The best lawyer for you is experienced, has a great track record, and is affordable. They also need to be excellent communicators and keep you in the loop at all stages.
You’re paying this person to represent you, so make sure you choose someone you trust. And don’t be afraid to ask questions at every stage.
If you’ve enjoyed this article, we’ve got lots more legal hints and tips for you. Head over to our Employment Law section today!
