Finding an Attorney

This week's blog covers some basic tips when looking for an attorney.

Most people don't have a "regular" attorney, in the sense that they have one or more doctors that they see at least annually.

So how do you find the attorney who's right for you?

Where do you turn for recommendations?

One way is to get recommendations from a trusted friend, relative, or business associate. Be aware that each legal case is different and that an attorney who is right for someone else may not suit you or your legal problem.

Are there any practical considerations to keep in mind when choosing an attorney?

Yes, the attorney's area of expertise and prior experience are important.

Eighteen states have specialization programs that certify attorneys as specialists in certain stated types of law. These states are: Alabama, Arizona, California, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Louisiana, Maine, Minnesota, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee and Texas.

In states without certification programs, you may want to ask about your attorney's areas of concentration. You also may wish to ask about the type of cases your attorney generally handles.

To learn more about your states certifications, check your local bar association website.

Another possibility is a referral service.

Most communities have referral services to help the public find attorneys . These services usually recommend a attorney in the area—sometimes at a reduced cost.

Several services offer help to groups with unique characteristics, such as the elderly, immigrants, victims of domestic violence, or persons with a disability.

These services usually make referrals according to specific areas of law, helping you find an attorney with the right area of practice.

Many referral services also have competency requirements for attorneys who wish to have referrals in a particular area of law.

To contact a referral service, look in the telephone book's yellow pages under "Lawyer/Attorney Referral Service," or look under any local or state bar association listing. You can also 'Google' it on the internet.

How do I go about choosing an attorney?

Most attorneys will meet with you briefly to "get acquainted," allowing you to talk with your prospective attorney before making a final hiring decision.

In many cases, there is no fee charged for an initial consultation. However, to be on the safe side, ask about fees before setting up your consultation appointment.

I may want to hire a lawyer, but I do not have much money. Where can I find low-cost legal help?

People do not have a right to a free attorney in civil legal matters (they do in most criminal cases). However, several legal assistance programs offer inexpensive or free legal services to those in need.

Most legal aid programs have special guidelines for eligibility, often based on where you live, the size of your family, and your income.

To find free or reduced-cost legal services in your area, call your bar association or county courthouse. You can also search "Legal Aid," or "Legal Assistance' on a computer with an internet connection.

For more information on this topic and many other legal topics, be sure to visit your local bar association website.