(This is an expansion of a more general article “Four Steps to Finding the Right Lawyer,” and a continuation from Step 2: Understand Cost)
Use Free Consultations
A free consultation is usually a first meeting with a lawyer. Free consultations are extremely useful because they can help you answer two important questions:
– Does this lawyer have the expertise, time, and resources to help me?
– Will this lawyer work in my best interest?
The discussion between you and the lawyer will focus almost entirely on the first question. You will tell the lawyer your situation and goal, and the lawyer will ask questions to make sure they understand. At the end of the meeting, the lawyer will explain if they can help, and might give you some options on what the lawyer can do.
If the lawyer has the skills and resources to help you, you need to ask yourself the second question: Will this lawyer work in your best interest? Try asking yourself these questions: Did the lawyer listen to you and your goals? Were professional and friendly? Did they seem trustworthy?
Go with Your Gut
The lawyer-client relationship is special—much like the relationship you desire with a medical professional. You are hiring the lawyer because they know a lot more about the law than you do, so you need to be able to trust that they will always put your interests above their own. It would be easy for them to suggest something that benefits them (like a complicated technique that costs more money) without benefiting you.
It’s a good idea to meet with several lawyers for free consultations before you decide to hire one. This will allow you to compare how you felt talking to each, and pick the one that you are most comfortable with. And don’t be afraid to listen to your gut or intuition. Those things exist for a reason. If you have an odd feeling about one lawyer, even if you can’t explain exactly why, it’s ok to pick someone else.
Good luck!