Experience in the area of law that you require. Many practice areas of law have membership organizations where you can check the profile of each attorney.
Ability to devote time to your issue/case.
Background – memberships in local bar associations and AVVO sites – seek levels that show dedication to their career
Can you relate to them as a person? Do they relate to you as an individual, not a ‘case’.
Do they invite you to ask questions about the process of your case?
Are they responsive – do they respond in a reasonable time period?
Do they have technical know-how? This is important in today’s fast moving world………. You can save time and money and transfer information and documents faster , more efficiently and more reliably using technology rather than snail mail. Using technology, you can hold teleconferencing when necessary.
Do they have local legal expertise – laws differ from state to state and even counties within a state
Do they have knowledge of the tax implications of your decisions?
Will they communicate in a way that you fully understand without legal jargon?
Are they accessible – willing to meet on your schedule?
Will they handle your case personally and not turn it over to a colleague who is less senior?
Are they willing to work with others e.g. your financial advisor or your family lawyer?
Do they have in-depth knowledge of the law in their practice field and your situation? Have they had clients with similar situations as yours?
Have they remained current with respect to changes in their field of law e.g. attending seminars, conferences.
Do they follow the rules of professional conduct?
Clients have the right to hire lawyers of their choosing. Is the attorney in a ‘network’ and refers only to those individuals in the network?
Does the attorney offer an engagement letter which defines the scope of work- the agreement between yourself and your attorney
Will the lawyer clearly outline and discuss with you the expected outcomes and time frame for your case.
Is the lawyer willing to discuss questions on your invoice statement and explain charges?
The answers to the above will point you in the direction of finding an attorney who gives you confidence
Working To Preserve Your Wealth and Protect Your Future...in a Constantly Changing World
Please read my full Disclaimer and How I Can Help You
Visit my website: www.attorneybarbaradalvano.weebly.com for additional articles; information about free webinars and printable infographics