Hiring an attorney is a very important process and should not be taken lightly. Legal issues have lasting consequences if you make a mistake in hiring the wrong attorney. Here are a few questions to help you select the right attorney for you. These questions are just a guide and you should do additional due diligence when hiring an attorney to handle your case.
- What is your experience in this area of law?
- What are the possible outcomes of my case?
- Have you handled cases like mine before?
- How many? Do you have any similar cases now?
- What are my alternatives in resolving the matter?
- What kind of approach will you take to resolve the matter – aggressive and unyielding, or will you be more inclined to reach a reasonable settlement?
- Are you familiar with other means of dispute resolution (mediation, arbitration, etc.)
- Approximately how long will it take to resolve this matter?
- Do you recommend mediation or arbitration?
- What are your rates and how often will you bill me?
- What is a ballpark figure for the total bill, including fees and expenses?
- How will you keep me informed of progress?
- When can I expect you to contact me?
- Do I need to call/e-mail to check up on things?
- Who else in the office will be working on my case?
- Can junior attorneys or paralegals in the office handle some of the administrative work at a lower rate?
- Would you give me a reference or two?
These questions should help you gain more insight in to whether or not the attorney you are thinking about hiring is the right fit or not.
