Looking for a lawyer is something we all have to do at some point in our lives, and yet for most people it can be an intimidating and daunting process.
The first hurdle to overcome is actually finding a legal professional who will be able to represent you effectively in whatever matter you need them to tackle. Thankfully there are a few ways to improve your chances of connecting with the ideal attorney, so read on for some top tips to get you started.
Look for specialists
When it comes to seeking legal representation, it pays to pick an attorney who specializes in the type of case that you are faced with.
For example, if you are looking to make a disability claim after an accident, injury or illness that impacts your income, firms like Darras Law which have a track record of catering to clients in this category will be your best bet.
The same applies whether you are in need of a property lawyer, a divorce attorney or a criminal law expert. In short, do not settle for someone who has little experience of the issue at hand, as this will only lead to complications further down the line which could have been avoided.
Consider your location
In the age of the Internet, it is easier to get legal assistance from a lawyer who lives and works in a completely different part of the state. This sounds good in principle, and for some purposes it is entirely adequate to go this route. However, you may be better off if you hire an attorney who is local to you.
Part of the reason for this is that when you want to discuss important matters, it may be better to do this face to face rather than over the phone, via email or in a video call.
Secondly, opting for a lawyer that is geographically accessible will also give you the opportunity to take recommendations from friends, family and colleagues. If a person you know and trust can recommend a local lawyer, this is a great way to start a rewarding professional relationship without the usual qualms and uncertainties involved.
Check official directories
Another part of researching the right lawyer is to check up on their credentials. This is a breeze so long as you have internet access, as the American Bar Association has its own directory of lawyers that you can refer to.
There are similar state-level solutions on offer, so a quick online search will let you know whether a prospective lawyer is properly qualified and accredited.
Read reviews
An official listing or a personal recommendation might not be enough to convince you that you are hiring the best possible lawyer for your needs. This is where online reviews can be a boon, since lots of well-regarded professionals in this field will have received glowing feedback from their other clients, while those with less than perfect reputations will also be highlighted in the same way.
As with any online review, you need to take user posts relating to lawyers with a pinch of salt. Even so, they can form a useful part of your research prior to making a decision.
Consider the terms of service
Finally, you might be concerned about how much it will cost to hire a lawyer to represent you, and this is definitely a legitimate concern for lots of people.
One way to overcome this is to look for lawyers that only require that a fee be paid if they successfully win your case. This is common for disability claims, for example, and prevents you being left out of pocket.
