What are the things that you ought to do when choosing which law firm to hire for your specific purposes? Do you do it on a random basis, going to the first law firm that you come across? Or do you listen to recommendations from family and friends? You could also go to those attorneys whom you personally know. Perhaps you like to do things by the book and do some research on the potential law firms so you could find the perfect fit for you.
What is the right way of doing it? Trust me when I say that a combination of all those mentioned is the best way. First, be as random as you like in looking for law firms. You can find the names of many law firms and lawyers in the yellow pages. Do an advanced search on the internet to have more options. List them all down.
Next, you should narrow down that list by doing some research. Here, the suggestions and opinions of your family, friends, and other people you know will play an important role. Get out and talk to people you do not know but have an opinion of the law firm so you will know what they think. These strangers could tell you something about the firm that you don't already know.
Learning more about the firm can be done through browsing the websites of these law firms on the internet. Here, it is indicated what area or branch of law they specialize in. Do they focus on divorce cases or DUIs? Is their forte personal injury suits or criminal cases? The list will be refined if you exclude all those law firms who specialize in cases that are not really what you are looking for. The websites also contain some testimonials from the clients of the firm both in the past and in the present.
You will also be able to find out how good these lawyers are by the awards, accolades and affiliations commonly listed in one part of their website. You can also look into the personal qualifications and credentials of the lawyers who are currently working in the firm. After all, a law firm is only as good as the people behind it - the lawyers. Many websites also list down where their lawyers went to school before earning their law degrees.
Your decision may be hugely influenced by the success rate and track performance record of the law firm. Most cases are public record, so you can look into those and see how the firm fares in the cases they handle, particularly those that are similar to your own circumstances. Of course you would be more inclined to choose those who have shown a good track record in those cases.
Once you have a shortlist, you may want to personally inquire on their billing and charging policies. Often, lawyers charge or bill by the hour. But in recognition of those who are not really financially well-off, payment plans are set forth. Find the one you can afford or the plan that will not be too onerous for you. Meeting with these lawyers will give you an idea if you will be able to work with them and actually trust them with your case.
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