3 Tips for Choosing an Attorney

An attorney can represent you or your interests or provide legal advice, but choosing the right one can be confusing. Here are three tips for choosing an attorney.

1. Know What Service You Need

There are many situations in which you may require legal representation. Everything from filing a lawsuit to starting a business can benefit from legal expertise. It’s important to know what law specialty will best complement your situation. If you’re in need of family law services, for example, you’d be looking at a firm like Cordell & Cordell, which specializes in family law.

2. Arrange Payment

Once you narrow down your law firm choices, ask about charges and fees. If you’re drafting a will, you may only need to pay a flat fee. In other situations, you may be required to pay an hourly fee or negotiate a contingency fee. Some state bar associations require lawyers to put payment agreements in writing before agreeing to take on a client. In other states, payment details are required to be put in writing within a set amount of time after the lawyer begins representing a client. Regardless, it’s important to make sure all payment agreements and details are put in writing at some point.

3. Learn Who You’re Working With

Continuing the example above, if you think the Cordell & Cordell team meets your needs, make sure you meet with them. When you choose an attorney to represent you, make sure both parties understand what they’ve agreed to. If you have any questions about obligations, fees or what information you’re required to provide, make sure you ask. Choose an attorney who will discuss different approaches to the case with you and check that you’re comfortable with the direction he or she wants to take.

If you want to hire an attorney, do your research and make sure you feel comfortable with the firm you choose before committing.