There are currently over 813,900 lawyers employed throughout the country. When you need legal help, you can’t just hire an attorney you meet with. Instead, you need to vet each one to find an attorney who suits your needs.
Are you on the hunt for an attorney? You’re in luck! You can use this guide during your search.
With these questions to ask a lawyer during a consultation, you can narrow down your options.
Then, you can make sure you have the best possible legal representation at your side. Hire an attorney you can rely on by using this helpful guide!
1. What Experience Do You Have With My Situation?
First, take a moment to consider the type of lawyer you need. What kind of legal trouble are you in?
Were you in a car accident? Did the truck involve a bicycle, motorcycle, or truck?
Maybe you received a DUI or want to file a medical malpractice claim. What type of medical malpractice is involved? Was it a wrongful death, medication error, or surgical mistake?
Your situation will define what type of lawyer you need. For example, you might need an automobile accident lawyer who specializes in bike accidents. For a DUI, you’ll need to look for a criminal defense attorney.
Once you know what type of lawyer you need, you can focus your search.
Make sure to look for a lawyer who has years of experience in their specialty. How long have they practiced law in Michigan? How long have they specialized in criminal defense law?
You might find a lawyer who has practiced for 50 years only has two years of experience in the specialty you need.
How long have they practiced locally, too? Some laws differ based on the state, city, or county you’re in. When you need legal help, you need to find an attorney who has the right knowledge and experience.
Otherwise, you might end up in a courtroom with a lawyer who fumbles over their words.
Are they up-to-date regarding the latest laws and procedures that are relevant to your case? If their education is out of date, continue your search.
2. Are You Licensed and Board-Certified?
As you work through these questions to ask a lawyer, focus on finding an attorney who meets all the essentials on your list, first.
For example, are they licensed to practice in the area? Is their licensing up-to-date? Ask for proof of the lawyer’s license before you hire them.
You can also check the local bar association website to see for yourself.
Are you focused on finding a lawyer with additional certifications? A board certification could mean they have additional training. For example, you might want to look for a lawyer with the National Board of Trial Advocacy certification.
This certification means they have extensive courtroom experience. You’ll have peace of mind knowing your lawyer can properly prepare for trial.
3. How Experienced Are You in a Courtroom?
Remember, you want an experienced, knowledgeable lawyer at your side. It’s not enough for a criminal defense attorney to have years of experience. You also need to make sure they have courtroom experience.
Is your lawyer prepared in the event your case goes to trial and verdict? If not, their lack of experience could hinder your case. They might not feel confident after entering the courtroom.
If your lawyer is apprehensive about going to court, they might take a plea bargain. Instead of helping you achieve the best possible outcome, they might rush through your case.
Instead, choosing someone with the right experience will ensure they have your best interests in mind.
4. Can You Provide References and Reviews?
Lawyers are generally strong communicators. They know how to talk themselves up. You don’t have to believe their word for it, though.
Instead, ask for references and reviews from their previous clients. You can also find reviews online. Check the Better Business Bureau website and Google My Business.
Reading reviews will give you additional insight into each lawyer’s abilities.
Were their clients satisfied? Did they experience any problems while working with their lawyer? Do they have any complaints?
Read reviews from different sources to get a full picture of each lawyer.
5. What’s Your Track Record?
Once you find an experienced lawyer, you want to make sure they’re experienced. During your consultation, consider questions to ask a lawyer about their past cases.
How many cases have they worked? How many of those cases were similar to yours? Were those cases recent?
How many cases did they win?
Are you pursuing a personal injury case? About 5.8 million people die each year for their injuries. You deserve a lawyer who can win on your behalf.
If a lawyer doesn’t have a strong track record, hire an attorney who does.
6. What Outcome Do You Expect?
A consultation appointment gives you and the attorney time to learn about each other. Let the attorney know what kind of situation you’re in. What legal help do you need?
They’ll review the details of your case to help you build realistic expectations. For example, what’s the average length of a trial for your situation?
Are you looking for compensation for your losses? Ask the lawyer how much you can expect to win.
Look for a lawyer who is transparent and honest. They can’t predict what will happen. They shouldn’t give you any guarantees.
7. How Are Your Fees Structured?
Finally, make sure you understand the specifics of the lawyer’s contract. Can you afford their services? Do they work on a contingency fee basis?
If they do, they’ll only charge you if they win your case. Your lawyer will take a percentage of your winnings.
Don’t hire the cheapest lawyer you find. Remember what you’re paying for: legal help that could change your future.
Hire Only the Best: 7 Questions to Ask a Lawyer During a Consultation
Don’t choose the first lawyer you meet with. Instead, consider these seven questions to ask a lawyer when you first meet. Asking these questions will help you find the best lawyer for your situation.
Otherwise, you might find yourself in more trouble than you first realized.
Want to discuss your case? Contact us today for a criminal defense legal consultation.