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Lawyer Selection Tips: Questions & Answers

   Is the attorney reputable?
   To find out if the attorney in question is in good standing and has not been publicly disciplined, call directory assistance for the State Bar association in your particular state.

   Does the lawyer specialize?
   Some lawyers may practice in different fields of law. On the other hand, some lawyers concentrate on a single area of law. Inquire as to the percentage of practice that is dedicated to the particular area you need. This helps to gage what level of applied experience an attorney may have.

   How to determine which lawyer is best for you?
   Make a list of several lawyers, then phone them for more information to help make your decision. Take notes and ask questions regarding their experience with your problem type, and if they have recently handled a case similar to yours. Write down everything you learn and narrow down your list, taking time to think things over. Then make an appointment to talk at length with the lawyer who seems best for you.

   Should you hire the lawyer?
   That depends on how you feel after the first meeting. You may want to ask if the lawyer will be handling your case personally or if your case will be passed on to another member of the firm. You may also want to ask yourself a few questions: 1. Will you be comfortable working closely with the lawyer? 2. Do you understand the lawyer’s explanation of what your case involves? 3. Do you believe the lawyer has the experience to handle your particular case? 4. Does the lawyer’s fee seem reasonable? If you are comfortable and have answered yes to the previous questions you may have found yourself an attorney. If not, you should probably consult with another lawyer.

   What about lawyer fees?
There are several kinds of fee arrangements;

     A "contingency fee" means that the lawyer will take a percentage of your settlement if you win the case.

     A "non-contingency" agreement must include the lawyer’s hourly rate and other fees and charges that would apply to your case. It must also include an explanation of the services the lawyer will provide for you.

     A "standard fee" is often used for routine legal matters, and the client is charged a set amount. Some lawyers charge "by the hour," in this case you can ask for an estimation of hours required to handle your case and their hourly rate. Keep in mind that this is only an estimate and circumstances may change that could take longer to handle than originally expected.

     A "retainer fee" can have several different meanings so be sure to find out which one applies. One way guarantees the lawyer’s availability, and you will be billed additionally for the legal work. It can also mean that the lawyer is on call to handle your legal problems over a period if time, and may include some kinds of legal services while others would be billed separately. Additionally, a retainer fee is sometimes considered to be a down payment, and that legal fees will be subtracted from the retainer until it is used up, then you will either be asked to replace the retainer or you will be billed for additional time spent on your case.

   What if I have difficulty with my lawyer?
   There are a number of ways to solve problems with a lawyer. If you are dissatisfied with your lawyer, tell them. The two of you may be able to work out a solution. If the disagreement is over the fee and you cannot settle it yourselves, you can take your dispute to an impartial fee arbitration panel - contact your local bar association for further information. If you believe that your lawyer mishandled your case intentionally then call the State Bar association. Lastly, if you believe that you suffered a loss due to your lawyer making an honest mistake, you may want to contact another lawyer and take it to court, as you may be entitled to sue for malpractice .

     In most cases, however, lawyers and their clients do have satisfactory relationships. The purpose of "Selection Tips" is to provide some general information that might aid you selecting a suitable attorney. In many cases, choosing the right attorney may be the most important decision of your life. You must choose wisely.