If you are in a position where you need the assistance and representation of an attorney, it can be difficult to know how to find a good one. However, this can one of the most important decisions you can make when it comes to your legal case. Therefore, you should spend some time considering which attorney you want to hire and whether they would be the best candidate for the job. It is advisable to try and find an attorney that has some experience in the kind of case that yours relates to. To give you a helping hand, we have put together this how-to guide on how to find a good attorney.
Work Out What Sort of Attorney You Need
You should first determine what sort of attorney it is that you require and that will make it easier for you to narrow down your search. Attorneys tend to specialize in certain areas of the law, so whether your case is based on family law or criminal law, you should find an attorney that has experience of representing individuals who are in a similar situation to you. By not finding an attorney that is a specialist in your type of case, then you are putting yourself and your case at a disadvantage.
Contact Your Local Bar AssociationIf you are struggling to know where to look for a good attorney, then you should consider going to your local bar association and ask them for recommendations. State bar departments keep records of any complaints or actions taken against attorneys in the local area, so you know who you should avoid. If an attorney is licensed to practice in the state, then the local bar association will have documentation in reference to them.
Look OnlineOne of the easiest ways to find a good attorney is to look online at the listings of attorneys in your area that are experienced in your type of case. Simply by imputing New York lawyer, for example, into a search engine, you will receive listings of attorneys in your local area. You may also be able to find further reviews on attorneys from their previous clients by doing online research. There are also online websites such as LawTrades that present helpful attorney reviews.
Ask AroundOne of the best ways to get a recommendation is through word of mouth. If you have any friends or family that have recently needed an attorney's representation, then you should ask them who they used or if they can make any recommendations for you. This is a good way to find a high-quality attorney, as you can be sure that the information you are being provided with from a family member or friend is genuine, unlike the information you find online.
While it can sometimes be difficult to find an attorney that is right for you, it is crucial that you go with someone you feel comfortable with and ultimately, it is important to trust your instincts.