3 Tips For Choosing A Lawyer

Whether you are getting a divorce, have been accused of a crime, are buying a house, or need legal counsel for another reason, finding the right lawyer for your needs is very important. However it's important to note that when it comes to lawyers there is no one size fits all option. With over 1.3 million lawyers practicing in the US, finding the right one to handle your legal issues can be a challenge. Here are three tips for choosing a lawyer. 

Shop Around

While you may find that the first lawyer you look into is a good fit for your legal needs, in most cases shopping around is a good idea. Law firms are a great place to start your search. Law firms range in size from small to big and can have a variety of attorneys who may be suited for your legal needs. When looking into lawyers and law firms it's important to start out by asking what types of law they specialize in. Some law firms stick to one specialty, such as family law, while others may offer a wider range of legal services.

Experience Matters

When choosing a lawyer, experience is something that should play a big role in your decision. You want to find a lawyer who has experience in the area of law in which you require legal advice. Many lawyers offer free consultations so that you are able to get a feel for what they can offer. During the consultation it's important to ask about their expertise, their background, who would be working on your case, and what they charge. It's important to ask about what type of cases they have dealt with in the past. If they have primarily dealt with clients similar to yourself, they may be a good fit.

Determine Costs Beforehand

Determining the costs of your lawyer beforehand is another important thing to do before you make a decision. You want to make sure that you choose a lawyer whose services you can afford. The cost of a lawyer's services can vary from lawyer to lawyer and depending on the services you require. How lawyers are paid can also vary with some charging an hourly fee, others asking for a retainer, and some working on contingency. Hourly fees are typically between $100 and $500 while those who typically work on contingency take around 33 percent of the settlement.

Choosing the right lawyer is essential for getting the legal outcome you are looking for. When looking for a lawyer it's important to shop around and find one who is experienced in the legal area you need help in. Before selecting a lawyer it's also important to ask about their rates in order to make sure that you can afford their services. 

Contact a firm, like Johnson/Turner Legal, for more help.

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