10 Tips for Selecting the Right Attorney

Don’t simply pick the first lawyer you contact

It is vital that you do your homework and actually meet with several attorneys before you put down a large deposit to retain one. Trust is extremely important in the relationship you will develop with your attorney, and you need to meet them to get a feel for that initial first impression.

Talk to people you know who have been through divorce

It can be an awkward conversation to bring up, but talking to friends, family or coworkers who have been through divorce can give you a good place to start. Despite the ability of researching on the Internet, first-hand accounts are still a really good way to get quality information.

Don’t assume based on gender

The chance of your attorney’s gender impacting the outcome of your case is not very high. It is much more important to worry about finding a competent and dependable attorney that you feel comfortable being around. What should matter most is that you trust them to fight for your best interests, regardless of their gender.

Be wary of advertisements

While TV and radio ads may indicate a successful lawyer or firm, that isn’t always the case. Ads are simply meant to attract business and don’t necessarily reflect the track record of an attorney.

A higher priced attorney does not necessarily mean a better attorney

Many people think that just because a lawyer charges more per hour that they will get better service and a better settlement. That is not necessarily the case. A higher rate may signify a more experienced attorney, or it could simply mean they primarily practice in a larger market.

Select someone who has experience with your interests

If you have children and can foresee a nasty custody dispute, you will want to be sure your attorney is very familiar with how the custody and support laws work in your area. But if you have a complex business and that same attorney doesn’t have tons of experience with business valuation and distribution, you may want to keep looking.

Pick an attorney from your local jurisdiction

Many attorneys are licensed to practice in several different states; however, laws can vary drastically, even at the local level. You want an attorney well-versed with the regulations in your area, as well as a familiar relationship with local judges and officials.

Find a good negotiator

The goal should be to come to a fair settlement while avoiding court. Some attorneys prefer to fight things out in trial, but that method drags out the case and is much more expensive.

But still, ensure the attorney you pick has plenty of courtroom experience

Sometimes, no matter how good of a negotiator you have, going to trial is the final option to settle disputed matters. Your attorney should have plenty of experience and not be intimidated by the prospect of trial.