5 Questions to Ask Before Hiring Lawyers

There are few times in life where hiring lawyers is something people do for pleasure.

Whether you’re in trouble with the law, facing a lawsuit, or pursuing a legal claim, odds are, you’d rather not be in that position. Unfortunately, the world doesn’t work that way. When facing legal issues, the only way out is through.

The lawyer you hire to represent you can significantly impact the outcome of your case. To find the best lawyer for your circumstances, you need to ask the right questions.

Keep reading to find out what those questions are.

1. What Are Your Areas of Expertise?

When hiring lawyers, you first need to identify what type of case you have and what types of cases fall within their areas of expertise. For example, if you are facing false accusations for sexual harassment, you don’t need a lawyer who specializes in wills and trusts.

If they have experience with cases or specialize in the area of your specific circumstances, you’re going to be in good hands.

2. What Are Your Costs?

Next, you need to find out about costs. Compare and contrast prices from your top choices, but remember that the cheapest option will likely be a less experienced attorney. Price is important, but don’t use it as the sole factor in choosing your lawyer.

Find out what their common lawyer fees are and what extra costs could be involved.

3. How Available Will You Be If I Have Questions?

One of the biggest complaints clients have about their lawyers is that they have poor communication skills. While you can’t expect your lawyer to answer every single phone call or email you back right away in the middle of the night, there should be some accountability.

When hiring lawyers, ask about what their communication policy is. You’ll also want to get a good feel for how respectful and accommodating they are with their clients. We also recommend looking up referrals and reviews to see what past clients have to say.

4. How Many Cases Are You Currently Handling?

Your case is important. The outcome can affect your entire life, whether you’re facing fines, jail time, or are hanging on the possibility of winning a lot of money in a lawsuit. Now is not the time to be shy.

Ask your lawyer how many cases they have on their plate. If they have too many balls in the air, they may be unable to give your case the attention it requires to secure a positive outcome.

5. How Long Have You Practiced Law?

Once again, it may be outside of your normal code of operation, but you need to be confident and frank while hiring lawyers. Ask them how long they’ve been practicing law. You can even inquire about their track record in regards to cases like yours.

Remember, you don’t owe them your business, they need to earn it. If they’re unwilling to talk about their experience, they may not be the right lawyer for you.

Want More Tips for Hiring Lawyers or Other Specialists?

If you’re reading this article, let us first say that we’re sorry you find yourself in this position. Hiring lawyers, while necessary, isn’t an experience most people enjoy. We wish you the best of luck.

And if you need any more advice, legal or otherwise, be sure to check out some of our other articles before you go. Our blog is dedicated to helping people like you find answers to the endless questions life has to offer.

To read more on topics like this, check out the Money category