How to Find & Hire an Attorney
Hiring an attorney can be intimidating. With so many law firms to choose from, you may worry about going with the wrong one. How do you know if the attorney you hire is the best one for your situation?
Here are some tips and things to consider if you have a legal issue that could benefit from an attorney’s advice.
Choose the Right Expertise
Most lawyers have an area of specialty. If you believe you were wrongfully terminated from your job, you should hire an attorney with labor and employment experience. Insurance companies often lowball claims for car accident injuries. If you want to ensure you get the settlement you deserve, taking your case to a personal injury lawyer is an excellent first step. Before you begin your search for a Labor & Employment Lawyer in Billings MT, make sure you’re looking in the right area.
Learn More About Your Legal Issue
Take some time to understand more about your legal situation. Learning the terms related to your dilemma or issue will help you communicate with the lawyer better and get started handling the problem as soon as possible. Knowing exactly what you need can save time and energy, which can also translate into saving you money.
Research Potential Attorneys
Now that you have an idea about the type of attorney you need and understand some of the terms that apply to your situation, it’s time to search for attorneys that can meet your needs. Start with recommendations from your network, from friends and family to neighbors and co-workers. Most people are more than happy to share their experiences and answer any questions you have. If your network has no recommendations, you can move to online directories, such as the State Bar of Montana and other reputable sites.
Television and radio ads can bring attention to firms you didn’t know about, but don’t rely only on the 30-second spot for full disclosure. Research the attorneys that specialize in the niche related to your circumstances. Read client reviews and make a list of the firms you feel can address the issues you face. Everyone’s experience with their attorney is unique. You will likely see a broad range of opinions. This can help you better understand your needs and which firms you can work with the best.
Interview Potential Firms
Whether it’s a large firm or a small one or two-person practice, the best way to assess the ability of the lawyer is by interviewing them. Most attorneys offer a free initial consultation to evaluate your case. Make a list of questions to ask and make notes during your conversation. Below are some of the most common points addressed by potential clients:
Areas of Expertise
Even though you have done the research, it’s always best to confirm that the lawyer you’re speaking with has experience in the area you need.Legal Team
Some lawyers do all the casework themselves. Depending on the size and number of cases, some may delegate to paralegals within the firm or outsource the work to other attorneys. Make sure you know who will be handling the details of your case as it can impact the quality of the legal services as well as the cost.Potential Fees
Legal expenses can become costly. The attorney should be able to provide an estimate based on the details of your case. Choosing legal representation based on price alone is not recommended. Lawyers whose rates are surprisingly cheap may be hiding additional fees that crop up throughout your case. They may charge for research services, filing fees, copies of documents, and other related tasks. Make sure you understand what you’ll be charged for and how much.Payment Arrangements
Lawyers have extensive training, which is typically reflected in their fees. Although you don’t necessarily want to go with the cheapest representation, the most expensive isn’t necessarily the best one either. Look for a balance between cost and experience. Depending on your case details, a junior lawyer could perform the duties required, which could lower your price.Additional questions to ask include:
- How long have you been practicing?
- Do you have specialized training or skills?
- What is your track record of success?
- What percentage of the cases you handle are related to this type of legal issue?
- How often do you bill for services rendered?
- How do you inform clients of case status?
When to Hire an Attorney?
Not all legal issues require the assistance of an attorney. You may decide that going to small claims court or addressing a speeding ticket are well within your capabilities. However, the law is complicated. If you were injured on the job, prescribed the wrong medication, are starting a business, or another issue that involves a contract, legal dispute, or challenge, hiring a lawyer is often the right step.
Attorneys know how to challenge evidence, handle deadlines and procedures necessary for filing official documents and have access to expert witnesses you may need on your side. Situations that benefit from legal representation include:
- Accidents that result in personal injury or death
- Child custody
- Divorce
- Personal property damage
- Selling or buying a business
- Estate planning
- Starting a business
- Being arrested
- Tax problems
- Immigration status or visa issues
- Harassment or discrimination
When in doubt, contacting a lawyer and scheduling an initial consultation can provide peace of mind. For example, if you want to set up a trust to ensure the transfer of your assets to the appropriate beneficiaries, an attorney can help with wealth transfer. If you sustain injuries in a car accident due to another driver’s negligence, a personal injury lawyer can help ensure you get the medical care and settlement you need.
Contact RMK Law Firm
The team at Ritchie Manning Kautz PLLP offers the integrated legal services that clients expect from large firms with the personalized attention of a family practice. With over 40 years of experience in a broad range of areas, we offer legal assistance in the courtroom and across the negotiating table. If your case is time-sensitive, do not hesitate to contact us online or call (406) 601-1400 to schedule a consultation with an attorney to discuss your case.
_______
