Hiring an attorney can be expensive, and finding one with the right experience for your situation can be even more costly. Many attorneys charge a flat fee or on a contingency basis, depending on the legal issue in question.

Attorneys tend to focus on specific practice areas. If you have a criminal case, for instance, you want an experienced criminal defense lawyer.

Get a Recommendation

One of the best ways to find an attorney is to get a recommendation from someone you trust, such as a friend or relative. If they have used an attorney in the past, ask them for a name and whether that lawyer handled the type of legal matter you need help with.

Once you have a list of potential attorneys, call them to schedule a meeting or consultation. Many attorneys will do this free of charge. During the consultation, pay attention to how well the attorney answers your questions. If they seem hesitant, use too much “legalese” or don’t listen to you, choose another attorney.

During your consultation, note how the attorney and their staff interact. This can tell you a lot about their professionalism. Finally, use your common sense and gut instincts to make a decision. The relationship with your attorney can last years, and you want to find a person that inspires confidence and will do the best job for you.

Do Your Research

Just like you would do when hiring a physician, plumber or a gardener, it is important to do your research before selecting an attorney. Look for online reviews and testimonials that can help you make a decision. Also, try to find out if they have experience with cases that are similar to yours.

Additionally, if you have any questions or concerns, it is best to address these in your initial meeting. Most attorneys will provide a free consultation and should be willing to answer any questions you may have.

In addition, make sure that they are available to meet during a time that is convenient for you. It is not uncommon for a lawyer to take on multiple cases at once, so you want to make sure that they will be able to devote enough attention to your case. If they are busy, it may be best to choose a different attorney. This way, you can rest assured that your case is in good hands.

Get a Free Consultation

When searching for an attorney, it is a good idea to get a free consultation. This gives the attorney a chance to share information about themselves and win your confidence, and it also gives you an opportunity to “interview” attorneys. This will also give you a better idea of which lawyer is best suited to your legal case.

During the meeting, bring all documents that relate to your legal issue. This will provide the attorney with all the details they need to offer initial thoughts on whether or not your case has merit.

One thing you should ask is how the firm’s fee structure works. Many disputes between lawyers and clients revolve around fees, so it is important to know how much you will be expected to pay in advance. Asking this question during your free consultation will help to avoid any surprises later on. A good attorney will be more than happy to answer your questions.

Make the Right Decision

Ultimately, the decision to hire an attorney is one you must make with your heart as well as your head. There are many factors to consider, such as experience, success rates and how their work compares with other attorneys in the area. You must also take into account your relationship with the potential lawyer. If something doesn’t feel right, trust your gut and move on to the next candidate.

It’s important to find a lawyer that is familiar with local laws and has a history of handling cases similar to yours. It’s equally important to have a clear understanding of the lawyer’s fee structure. While many attorneys charge by the hour, others may work on a contingency basis or require a retainer.

During your first meeting with an attorney, treat it like a job interview and ask them questions about their practice and experience. This will help you make the best choice for your situation.