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What's the Best Way to Find a Lawyer?

You've thought about it a lot and determined that you need to contact a lawyer. The main issue is where to look for one. This section will give you some pointers on what to look for in a lawyer and walk you through some questions to ask a lawyer because once you meet for the first time.

Most people do not have a "regular" lawyer in the sense that they do not see one or more doctors at least once a year. So, how do you find the right lawyer for you? What resources do you use to get recommendations?





When looking for a lawyer, what should I look for?

Because the lawyer will be assisting you in resolving your problems, the first requirement is that you feel comfortable telling him or her all of the facts necessary to resolve your problem, honestly and completely. Nothing you hear or read can guarantee that a particular lawyer is the best for you; you must make that determination for yourself.



When choosing a lawyer, are there any practical considerations to keep in mind?

Yes, the lawyer's specialization and prior experience are crucial. Many states have specialization programs that allow lawyers to be certified as specialists in specific areas of law. Some legal specialties, such as the James Gardner Hopkins, have developed their own certification programs. You might also inquire about the types of cases that your lawyer typically handles. What is the scope of that attorney's practice? (e.g. 50 percent personal injury cases, 25 percent divorce cases and 25 percent "other.") Keep in mind that while most lawyers are not certified in a specialty, this does not always imply that a lawyer is not an expert in that field, especially if the lawyer handles a large number of cases in that practice area.



Other factors to consider include the lawyer's office location, fees, and the length of time a case might take.



Where do I begin my search for a lawyer?

There are numerous methods for locating a trustworthy attorney. A recommendation from a trusted friend, relative, or business associate is one of the best. However, keep in mind that each legal case is unique, and a lawyer who is right for someone else may not be right for you or your legal issue.

Is it a good idea to look for a lawyer in classified ads?

Yes, advertisements are beneficial in some ways. Always be wary of believing everything you read and hear, and this is especially true when it comes to advertisements. Newspaper, telephone directory, radio, television, and Internet advertisements, as well as direct mail, can help you learn the names of lawyers who might be suitable for your legal needs. Some advertisements will also assist you in determining a lawyer's area of expertise. Other advertisements will state a fee or a range of fees for handling a particular type of "simple" case. Keep in mind that your situation might not have a straightforward solution. If a lawyer quotes a fee, make sure you understand exactly what services and expenses the fee includes and excludes.



What about a referral service in your area?

To assist people in finding lawyers, most communities have referral services. You might be able to find them in your yellow pages under "Lawyer Referral Service" or something similar. These services usually refer you to a local lawyer who can assess your situation. Several services cater to groups with special needs, such as the elderly, immigrants, domestic violence victims, and people with disabilities.



In most communities, bar associations make referrals based on specific areas of law, assisting you in finding a lawyer with the right experience and practice concentration. Many referral services impose competency requirements on lawyers seeking referrals in a specific area of law. Your local bar association can be found in the white pages of the phone book under the name of your community ("Centerville Bar Association") or your county ("Cass County Bar Association"). Your bar's website can also be found using your favorite search engine or the American Bar Association's interactive state-by-state lawyer-referral directory.



These services, however, are not a guarantee that you will find the best lawyer or the right lawyer for you. Some services make referrals regardless of the type or level of experience of the lawyer. You might want to look for a lawyer referral service that is part of the American Bar Association's certification program, which uses a logo to identify lawyer referral services that meet the ABA's quality standards.



A prepaid legal services plan is available at my new job. What can I anticipate?

Legal services, like many other items, are frequently cheaper when purchased in bulk. Some businesses, labor unions, and other organizations have formed "legal insurance" plans. These plans differ. In routine legal matters, many cover the majority, if not all, of the costs of legal consultations, document preparation, and court representation. Other programs only cover legal advice and consultation. Make sure you understand a legal plan's coverage and whether you'll be required to make out-of-pocket contributions before enrolling. These plans are structured similarly to group or cooperative medical insurance plans. Employers or unions set up a fund to cover legal fees for their employees, with the employee contributing a small co-payment in some cases. In recent years, legal group plans have become much more common. Customers of some retail department stores and credit card companies can take advantage of such plans.



I'd like to hire a lawyer, but I'm short on cash. Where can I get low-cost legal assistance?

Several legal aid programs provide low-cost or no-cost legal services to those in need. Look for "legal clinics," "legal aid," or "legal advice" in the yellow pages or on the internet. Most legal aid programs have specific eligibility requirements, which are often based on where you live, your family size, and your income. Some legal aid organizations employ their own lawyers, while others rely on volunteer attorneys. In civil legal matters, people do not have a right to a free lawyer.



I've been charged with a crime, but I can't afford to hire a lawyer. What options do I have?

If you are charged with a crime, the United States Constitution guarantees you the right to be represented by a lawyer in any case where you could face a six-month or longer sentence. For minor offenses, state constitutions may guarantee your right to a lawyer. If you can't afford a lawyer, the judge hearing your case will either appoint a private lawyer to represent you for free or the government's public defender will take care of your case for free.



Is there any other government assistance available besides court-appointed defenders?

Both the state and federal governments frequently have staff lawyers who can assist the general public in limited situations for no charge. If you have specific concerns, such as environmental issues or employment or housing discrimination, you should contact the appropriate federal agency.



Your state's attorney general may also provide free legal advice to the public on state laws. Consumer protection departments are maintained by some states as a function of the Attorney General's office. Similarly, counties, cities, and townships frequently have government lawyers who can advise the public on local laws through their law departments. Some of these local offices also provide assistance with consumer protection. Check the government listings in your phone book or use your favorite search engine on the Internet to find such agencies.

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