Hiring the Right Attorney is Essential to the Outcome of your Case

Hiring an attorney is something most people will face at least once in their lifetime. Whether it is while facing probate court after the death of a loved one or because you are facing a situation like a lawsuit being filed against you, you may need the help of a lawyer from time to time. How can you know you are getting the right one? Where can you look for a quality lawyer? It is essential to choose your representation wisely, as they will make or break your case.

Check Licensure

If this is your first time hiring an attorney, make sure you check to see that the individual is licensed to practice law in your state. While it is rare to find someone who is offering legal services without the right licensure, it is possible, and you do not want to be scammed into paying for legal services that are not, in fact, legal.

Consider Price

Many people assume that the more a lawyer costs, the better the services will be. This is not always the case. You need to try to hire one that you can afford. You also need to be aware that high prices do not necessarily translate into good services. Sometimes, they translate into high overhead. A smaller independent practice, for instance, may have better and more personal service than a large multi-lawyer firm, yet the price is often going to be much less.

Consider Experience

Experience can be helpful, but you do not necessarily need the most experienced attorney for your case. Sometimes, a very experienced lawyer may pass off your case to a paralegal in the name of "business" and you won't get the representation you planned on when hiring them. If your case is somewhat simple, you may find working with a less experienced attorney to be a bit more pleasant and cost effective. That said, sometimes it is worthwhile to pay a little extra for experience if you are dealing with a complex case.

Trust Is Important

Perhaps the most important factor when hiring an attorney is finding one you feel you can trust. This is where your initial consultation is helpful. You need to use that time to gauge whether or not you can trust the lawyer with your case. If you feel uncomfortable, you may not be able to communicate well with the individual, which is vital, and that could put the outcome of your case in jeopardy. If your instincts are telling you "no," then it's best to find another lawyer.

Agree on Fees

Once you have decided to hire a particular lawyer, ask for a signed fee agreement. This will outline the fees you will be charged, so both of you will be on the same page about payment before the work on your case begins. It may also outline how and when you will be paying.