There are many reasons why someone would call a lawyer. If this is your first time hiring one, it can be somewhat daunting. You not only need to feel comfortable with them, you need to understand how an attorney will charge you, and what process to follow for communicating with him or her. Use the tips below to help you understand what you can expect when dealing with lawyers.
Review a lawyer’s history before hiring them. Just because a lawyer can practice doesn’t mean he is good. Knowing a lawyer’s record will enable you to determine whether or not he or she can handle your case successfully.
Many people find it wise to keep an attorney on retainer. This will allow you not to be under too much pressure so you’re able to take some time when you’re looking for a trustworthy lawyer. With having someone already retained and ready to go, you’ll never be left with lingering legal questions.
Hiring a specialty lawyer may cost you more up front, but it may cost you less later on. The average lawyer will need to spend much more time researching the law pertaining to your case than one who is already familiar with that are of the law, resulting in less hourly fees.
Don’t pick a lawyer if anything about them makes you uncomfortable. This is true of their fee arrangement, too. Avoid signing a check that is blank for a lawyer. Ask for estimates directly to control the costs before they get out of hand during the case.
Keep a log of every interaction you have with your lawyer. Take note of dates, times, subjects of discussion and any mentions of billing issues. If any problems arise later, you’ll have an easier time handling them.
Figure out what the budget you’ll follow will be. You may be in a situation where you feel you’re in the right, but what is it going to cost? When trying to select an attorney, take a careful look at their fee schedule. Sit and talk to the lawyer about the budget and whatever you wish to achieve. Know that you may go over budget, sometimes.
When selecting a lawyer, make certain to research their reputation as much as possible. Your state’s bar association will be able to give you information about any lawyer licensed to practice law in that state. In the long run, the right lawyer can cut your costs significantly.
Referral Service
Use a legal referral service to find an attorney. This type of service can locate a lawyer for you. Some screen the lawyers on their list based on experience and proof of qualifications. Other services list favorable lawyers using the state bar’s guidelines for liability insurance. You want to find a good referral service with strict qualifications.
Before a lawyer works on your case, sign an agreement regarding fees. This way, you won’t end up paying more than you’ve agreed to pay. Further, your finances will be more predictable.
It won’t hurt to speak with another lawyer if you think your current one is doing a lousy job. Switching lawyers, late in the game, should only be done, if necessary. Before you decide, you should talk your decision over with someone you trust.
Never hire a lawyer you’ve only talked to on the phone. It is important that you schedule a face to face meeting, then you will get a sense of the lawyer’s demeanor and professionalism. It’s a bad idea to hire a lawyer without seeing them first. This will also allow you to see how comfortable you are around your lawyer.
Get a list of any potential lawyer’s recent clients. A reliable lawyer should have no problem providing you with this information, since they want you to believe they can perform well. Use this to judge whether the lawyer is the right one for your case. See if the lawyer’s past experience fits your present needs.
Look around when you first enter a prospective lawyer’s office. Is the bookshelf organized alphabetically? Do they have a messy desk full of papers? Does he have a place to hang his coat and is he using it? Hourly fees can add up quickly. Do you really want to pay your lawyer for an hour spent tracking down your paperwork?
Ask your lawyer how you should expect things to proceed. For instance, what is their opinion as to the length of time it is going to take to resolve your case? Make sure both you and the attorney are realistic and on the same page. Your legal costs will keep going up and your life can be negatively impacted.
You need to prepare yourself before hiring a lawyer, regardless of the kind of issue you are encountering. Be sure you do not forget the tips discussed here when you are ready to hire an attorney. You have been given great advice which will help create a smooth decision-making process.
