Hiring an Attorney: Stuff to Consider

When it comes to hiring an attorney, most people really aren’t sure where to start. It’s not as if choosing a lawyer is a class taught in high school, after all. Perhaps it should be. Especially when you consider the fact that it is one of the most important things you can do when you are dealing with legal issues of any kind. Whether you are considering filing suit against an individual or a company, defending yourself in a criminal trial, or just need to file some legal documents, a good lawyer can help immensely. Here are some things to consider as you do your search.

Find an attorney who is a specialist in the kind of law that pertains to your situation. There are plenty of general purpose law firms out there, but few of them will give you the attention and expertise your particular problem requires. Find a law firm that specializes in one particular aspect of law and you will find someone who understands your case. Someone who has dealt with the problems you are facing and can navigate the treacherous roads ahead.

One of the most important aspects of hiring an attorney is their experience. You don’t want someone fresh out of law school to be handling your case. They may understand everything from a textbook and still have very little clue what they are doing from a practical standpoint. Every lawyer must start somewhere and make their own mistakes, but that doesn’t mean you need to pay them to do it. You can bet that the lawyers on the other side of the courtroom will have plenty of experience, so you are putting yourself at a disadvantage if you don’t come bearing the same.

Look closely at your lawyer’s billing and fee structures to make sure you aren’t getting in over your head. Some firms couch things in such a way that you are never quite sure what you are being charged for. This can result in a rather nasty surprise when you get the bill. Don’t be afraid to ask pointed questions if you don’t understand something about the price structure. Hiring an attorney is rarely a cheap endeavor, but that doesn’t mean you should resign yourself to being taken for a ride.

Remember that hiring an attorney can be an intimidating process, but they are people just like you and they are also the equivalent of business owners, looking for customers. Don’t be fooled by sales talk, but likewise don’t be hesitant to go somewhere else if you don’t feel like your patronage is appreciated.