Most people need the help of an attorney at some stage in their lives. It could be in connection with estate planning or divorce, a criminal investigation, a house move or personal injury lawsuit. Whatever the reason, there are certain qualities you need to look for in a lawyer. Not all are created equal, so you need to find one that’s right for your specific needs. In this article, we’ll discuss 6 things you should keep in mind when looking for an attorney.
Their Area Of Specialism
No lawyer provides a generic solution to everyone’s legal needs. The law is as diverse as it is complex, so it’s paramount that you choose the right professional. You wouldn’t go to a podiatrist for a back problem, so you shouldn’t go to just any lawyer when you have legal troubles. For example, if you need a family lawyer, you wouldn’t use one who specializes in medical malpractice. When checking out attorneys, visit their websites to ensure they have the experience and qualifications necessary to help you.
It’s been said that in Texas, USA, there were 131,084 violent crimes each year, and 659,160 property crimes annually. It’s the job of a federal criminal defense lawyer in Texas to help people evade conviction or have reduced terms for their punishment. This is important because whilst federal crimes are similar in nature to state-level crimes, they carry much harsher penalties. By choosing the right legal professional, someone who’s accused of a crime will be best placed for a positive outcome.
The Initial Consultation
This is a meeting between you and the lawyer to discuss your legal issue – and it’s often free and non-obligatory. It’ll allow you to get to know the attorney and see if they’d be a good fit for your case. It also allows the lawyer to learn more about your situation and decide if they want to take it on.
For example, If you’ve been injured because of someone else’s negligence, they can let you know your chances of gaining compensation. They can also give you an indication of how much money this could be. Make sure you feel comfortable talking to them, however, as you may be discussing personal medical or financial matters later on.
Their Fee Structure
Many attorneys charge by the hour, while others may have a flat fee structure. You’ll want to be clear on what their fees are before you move forward. Additionally, ask about any hidden costs or additional fees that may not be included in their initial estimate. If you’re making a personal injury claim, find out whether there’s a ‘no win no fee’ policy in place.
Once you’ve decided to hire an attorney, get everything in writing. This includes a retainer agreement that outlines the scope of their services and how much you’ll be paying for them. Getting everything in writing can ensure that there are no surprises down the road and that both parties are clear on what’s expected from them.
Their Reviews
Lawyers’ previous clients can post reviews on a variety of websites. Google My Business is a great place to start and you can also check out sites like Yelp and AVVO. The lawyer’s website may also display testimonials from clients. This can give you a good idea of what to expect if you decide to work with them.
The reviews should give you an idea of the lawyer’s strengths and weaknesses. If there are a lot of negative reviews, that could be a red flag. However, keep in mind that some people are never happy no matter who they work with. Some folks might be disappointed with their outcome and take it out on the lawyer in their review. That’s why you should always read through the reviews carefully and take them with a grain of salt.
Their Location
It’s wise to choose a local lawyer because you’ll likely be meeting with them in person. If they’re further away, it may take longer to get to your meetings and cost more in travel expenses. You may even need to take a day off work every time you want a face-to-face chat or to drop off a document. Consider how often you’ll need to meet with them in person and whether the location would be a barrier to that.
If you’re dealing with a legal issue that’s specific to your area, it’s important to choose an attorney who’s familiar with the local laws and customs. They’ll know the ins and outs of the court system in your area and what to expect from the judges and opposing counsel. This knowledge can give you an advantage in your case. Laws vary from state to state (including the Statute of Limitations) so you need to employ someone who’s familiar with them. If you had an accident at work or in a local area, it’s beneficial if the attorney is already familiar with the company/location.
Their Availablity
You should be able to easily get in touch with your attorney when you need them. This means having their phone number and email readily available and being able to schedule regular office visits. If an attorney is difficult to contact, it can make it very difficult to get the help you need – and it could even endanger the legal outcome.
It may be that an attorney is already busy with a long list of clients, in which case, they may not be the best choice for you. You want to be able to get in touch with your attorney easily so you can quickly get the answers you need.
These 6 considerations can help ensure that you end up with the right attorney. They’ll have the knowledge and experience required, and be both personable and available. They’ll have good reviews and be clear about their charging structure. In turn, you’ll have the peace of mind that comes from knowing your legal situation is in good hands, and that you’re all set for a favorable result.
