Have you been charged with a crime? Are you looking to file a lawsuit against a person or organization? In either case, you would be wise to hire an attorney.
The question is: how do you go about hiring the right one? Here are 5 things to look out for when hiring an attorney.
1. Experience
There’s a big difference between simply passing the bar and actually practicing law in a professional capacity. Those who have just passed the bar are lacking in real-world experience, and so probably won’t provide the same level of service that a seasoned professional provides.
As such, you should ensure that your chosen lawyer has at least 2 years of experience in the field.
2. Affordable Rates
Not all lawyers charge the same thing. In fact, their rates can fluctuate wildly, with some charging as little as $75 an hour and others charging as high as $1,000 an hour.
You can only pay what you can afford, so you must find a lawyer within your budget. Depending on the severity of your situation, you might want to shell out a little more money to ensure that your lawyer is skilled and astute. Otherwise, you’re not going to want to blow up your bank account.
3. Specialization
The next thing to look for when hiring a lawyer is specialization. See, most lawyers practice a specific type of law, such as divorce, estate, or criminal law. There are generalists out there, but they’re typically not as skilled in niche situations.
We recommend choosing a lawyer who’s versed in your type of case. So, for example, if you’re suing over workplace harassment, you should find a lawyer who practices employment law, like Gorvins LLP.
4. A Successful History
You don’t just want an experienced lawyer. You want legal representation that has proven successful in the past. As such, when speaking to different lawyers, you should ask them about their recent history.
You should also use sites like Avvo, Facebook, and Google. These contain reviews on lawyers from their past clients. Read through these reviews and use them to help in your decision.
5. A Good Rapport
The last thing to look out for in a lawyer is whether they have a good rapport with you. You want to feel comfortable around your lawyer, after all, as you’ll be spending quite a bit of time together. You might also be divulging intimate details about yourself and your life, and you want someone you can trust.
Most lawyers provide free consultations with potential clients. Seek out free consultations until you find a lawyer you’re comfortable around.
Hiring an Attorney Is Easier Than It Seems
In truth, hiring an attorney is easier than it seems. Just seek out the above-reviewed characteristics, and you should end up with the perfect lawyer for you.
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