Questions To Ask a Lawyer Prior To Making Your Choice

Find out what is the history and experience of the lawyer.  What is the main thrust of his practice?  He is a recent graduate or does he have years of experience behind him.  Are most of the clients that he/she servers companies or individuals?

Most assuredly find out what your prospective lawyer thinks about our case.  Do they think the case can be won?  Be watchful for an attorney who makes “pie in the sky” statements of large settlements, but choose one who believes there is a good chance for you to win.   No matter who you are or what the circumstances, there are always two sides to the equation and multiple factors that will weigh into a final legal decision.

Find out if your case is one that has a likelihood of being settled out of court, or should you plan on an extended legal battle.  If they speak of a settlement, ask about the pros and cons and whether a trail might have a radical different outcome.  Does your perspective lawyer have courtroom experience, or are they saddled behind a desk most of the time?

While we would almost NEVER suggest being your own counsel, it might be in your own best interest to participate in the construction of your case.  Of course you are paying the legal bills, but you also know the most about the details of your situations, where records might be stored, who said what to whom.  Offer your services and find out their opinion on whether this would be an asset or determent.

The final outcome will affect you most of all, make it clear that no major decision be made without your input and particular your okay.  Choose a lawyer who can provide clear and concise explanations; ones that you understand, ones that a jury will understand.

What is the method of communication to you, how will you be advised of important changes or decisions concerning your case.  Will you be sent copies of all documentation, or will the lawyer keep all the copies.  Will your fees be reduced if you do a lot of the legwork, document preparation, etc?
Find out whether the lawyer you are interviewing is the one who will actually be preparing your case.  You are paying (in most instances) a retainer for good and sound legal advice; so find out if paralegal, law clerk, etc. will be doing the majority of the work.  That is not stated as a negative, but it might have an influence on the billable hours and your final bill.

You must have a meeting of the minds and be certain you’re on the same page.  There are situations where you and your attorney might have a radical disagreement; if this happens how will it be resolved?  Is binding arbitration a possibility if a major disruption occurs between the two of you?  While this might seem a difficult question, it is far better to ask it now, while on friendly terms, then worry later after a disagreement occurs.

Find out how you will be billed, this is very important.  Is your attorney working on a contingency (a percentage of the settlement)?  Or will they be sending your statements concerning billable hours?  Can you make installments, or must the bill be settled in full?  Make certain once this is discussed, that it is put in writing so there are no disagreements later.

No one likes legal problems, and certainly you don’t want to add to your problems by choosing the wrong lawyer.  Take your time when choosing a lawyer, the decision you make might affect your life for years to come.