In the running for the most asked question of 2016 is “How do I pick a good lawyer?” I have been asked this again and again by people. My best answer is “Ask questions!”
First, ask people you trust:
- Who do you use?
- Do you like them?
- Do they listen to you?
- Are they responsive?
- Do you feel their bills fairly reflect the work they do for you?
- Do they do the type of work I need done? If not, do they know someone who does?
Second, set up a time to talk with the attorneys (yes, plural) you think you want to engage. You aren’t required by insurance to a specific network so don’t be afraid to interview a few. Then, again, bust out the questions:
- I need help with X.
- Do you do that?
- How often?
- How do you charge?
- What do charge?
- Do you do flat fees?
- What do charge hourly?
- How do you bill?
- How do like to communicate?
- How should I tell you I have a project for you?
- How do you tend to work with your clients?
And whatever else you want to ask to know. Now’s not the time to be shy. You want to have a straight-forward relationship with your lawyer. You will have lots more questions and want lots more answers during the representation. So you might as well start it from the beginning. If your attorney can’t answer questions about themselves in way that you understand and appreciate, how will they do with legal topics?
Finally, ask yourself some questions:
- Do I trust this person?
- How did they respond to me when trying to hire them?
- Did they speak in language that I understood or “legal-ese”?
- Could I imagine calling them when I need help?
- Did they listen to me?
- Did I understand the terms if I engage them?
Then, be nice, and let the attorneys know if you are going to engage them or not. It isn’t necessary to so, but we appreciate it. And, of course, we love it when you say yes!