How to Find a Lawyer
Anyone can find a lawyer with a simple Internet search or by thumbing through a phone book. Finding just any lawyer, however, is not the best way to tackle a complex legal matter. Referrals, due diligence, and getting multiple recommendations can help match the right lawyer for each legal situation.
- Determine if a finding a lawyer in a specialized area is the best option. For example, lawyers often specialize in family law for adoptions, divorce or estate planning. For business matters, such as drafting contracts or settling payment disputes, a contract lawyer is typically the right specialty. General practice law firms might have several lawyers on staff that handle specific types of law such as real estate, family law, intellectual property or tax laws.
- Ask friends, family and business colleagues for referrals. Consider factors such as area of expertise, personality and cost as related by those with first-hand experience.
- Consult lawyer directories and legal aid referral services. Often, these databases have more detailed profiles of local lawyers than a typical ad in the phone book. Some databases even have a review or rating system where previous clients provide feedback.
- Contact local court clerks, where applicable, to inquire about recommendations. While most court clerks are not permitted to recommend a specific lawyer, they are often a good resource for finding reputable referral sources.
- Verify the standing of potential lawyers with the local Bar association. Depending on specific location, this might be a local Bar association or a state-wide organization. Most have online databases listing credentialed members in good standing.
- Conduct personal interviews with potential lawyers. Finding the right lawyer is not limited to just credentials, specialty and recommendations. Every lawyer has his or her own personality, professional style, rates and billing procedures that may or may not fit with every client or case.
While finding a lawyer can take time and effort, the benefits far outweigh the investment. Savvy clients balance a lawyer's expertise and personal or professional recommendations against complimentary personality traits, affordability and accessibility. The effort put into due diligence ensures finding a lawyer with the right experience, good ethics and proper credentials.