The top 5 things to look for in a lawyer

Choosing a lawyer is ideally a process one should spend some time on. Even when you need to move quickly you need to remember that doing your homework could make the difference between a successful case or a frustrating and expensive failure. Regardless of why you are seeking legal counsel, take the top 5 things to look for in a lawyer into consideration.

Reputation

Where did you hear about this attorney? Did you let your fingers randomly do the walking through the Yellow Pages or Google? If so, you need to do a good job vetting this candidate. Do you know anyone who has worked with this lawyer? If so, soliciting an opinion from a friend, family member or coworker can be most valuable. Hearing from someone you trust and how their experience went can provide useful information as opposed to hiring a complete stranger. If you don’t know anyone who has used this individual, ask for references.

Look online to see if there are any issues regarding professional misconduct. Getting positive and negative feedback from non-biased sources can help you decide whether or not this individual is right for you.

Availability and honesty

Are you getting the run around every time you show up for an appointment? If your lawyer is constantly late or you are spending far too much time trying to book your next appointment, beware. Your time and energy is equally important. Sometimes, we all need to reschedule, however, if this is becoming your regular experience with this individual, frustration is bound to set in. Your lawyer should have the organization, integrity and resources to keep their word and appointments.

Experience level

Choose the qualified professional to handle your unique needs. If you are going to family court regarding divorce and custody, be sure that you decide to use someone who has successfully represented similar cases and won. Inquiring ahead of time can make all the difference. Find out how long they have been practicing in your jurisdiction and how long they have been a licensed lawyer.

Review testimonials, qualifications, and history practice along with membership status to ensure that what is being advertised measures up to the facts. Note whether this person excels at trial or if they specialize in mediation. Different cases require different strengths. Understand this person’s abilities prior to hiring.

Dedication

You will be paying this person to represent you. Therefore, it is vital that you feel they are dedicated to your case and your best interests. Trust your instincts and pay attention during the initial consultation. Is the person across from you only looking to make money from your case or do they seem to genuinely have your success at heart. When in doubt, seek more than one consultation with different lawyers to determine who feels the best to represent you and your case.

Rates and fees

Having an idea of your financial expectations ahead of time can save you from a huge, unpleasant surprise later in the process. From the outset ask your prospective attorney how much cases like yours generally cost. Explain that you are aware that, if your case is more difficult, you will have to spend accordingly. Still, you should be able to get a ballpark figure that will help you with your decision making. Just remember that price shouldn’t be the determining factor in your choice.

Jonathan Meek at Meek Law Firm has the education and experience needed to successfully represent your interests, just as he has done for many other satisfied clients. Contact Meek Law Firm today to discuss your legal needs. Call (704) 848-6335 or use the contact form on the right of this page to schedule a consultation appointment. We look forward to hearing from you.