If you’ve never worked with an attorney before, finding the right one can seem like a daunting task. You want to be sure to choose someone with experience, who can handle your legal situation with sensitivity and professionalism. It’s impossible to determine whether an attorney will be a good fit for you from a simple listing in your local phone book. If you’re currently searching for a lawyer, here are a few tips that can help you find the right person to take your case.
Search Online
As you’re narrowing down your options, consider conducting an online search to learn more about the attorneys you’re considering. Look at their firm’s website as well as consumer review sites. Their firm’s website can help give you a better sense of their areas of specialty. Also check out what the public is saying. Many consumer review websites provide honest feedback from people who’ve had experience working with a particular attorney in the past. A simple online search for their name, law firm, or a specific keyword like ‘family lawyer in Chicago’ can help you find out more information about an attorney’s history and experience.
Review their Credentials
It goes without saying that you want a highly qualified lawyer in your corner if you’re dealing with a complex legal case. Many people take comfort in knowing that their attorney has won a high percentage of cases or graduated from a well ranked, prestigious law school. While these things may be important, they shouldn’t be the only factors that influence your decision. Keep in mind that just because an attorney has won many cases or went to a top ranked law school doesn’t mean that they’ll necessarily be the best person to handle your legal matter. It’s also important to consider their experience, history, and personality in order to make the right decision for your particular situation.
Set up an Initial Appointment
One of the best ways to determine whether an attorney is someone you’d be interested in hiring is to set up an initial interview or appointment. Many people will schedule a brief phone chat. Sometimes a simple conversation is enough to help you figure out whether or not you want to work with someone. Other people prefer to schedule an in-person legal consultation in order to determine if a potential attorney would be a good fit for their needs. It’s always a good idea to connect with the lawyers on your short list either over the phone or in person to see if their personality and demeanor align with your expectations.
Searching for the right attorney for your sensitive legal situation can seem like a challenging task if you’re just getting started. To narrow down your options, consider looking online at law firm websites and consumer reviews, researching their credentials, and setting up an initial phone chat or in-person consultation. Taking these simple steps can help you find the right lawyer to help with your legal case.