When your car breaks down, you look for a skilled auto mechanic, not a boat mechanic. Similarly, when dealing with legal issues, you want a lawyer who specializes in the right area of law. For example, a divorce calls for a family lawyer instead of a corporate attorney, and the same applies the other way around. Therefore, the following are some important questions you must consider asking the lawyer you are hiring.
1. What Experience Do You Have with Cases Like Mine?
Ask if the lawyer has handled similar cases before. Find out how experienced they are with situations like yours, including how complex the cases were and the results they achieved. This helps you understand if they’re familiar with the laws and challenges involved in your case.
2. Do You Have Any Special Certifications or Qualifications?
Check if the lawyer has additional training or certifications in specific areas of law, like family law or personal injury. These qualifications show that they have extra expertise and are highly skilled in their field.
3. What Is Your Fee Structure?
Ask how they charge for their services, whether it’s hourly, a flat fee, or a percentage of any money you win (contingency). Also, find out about other costs, like court or administrative fees, so you know what to expect financially.
4. Will You Personally Handle My Case?
Find out if the lawyer you’re speaking with will work on your case directly or if they will pass it to someone else in the firm, like another lawyer or a paralegal. This can affect the quality of service and how well you connect with your legal team.
5. How Will You Keep Me Updated About My Case?
Ask how the lawyer prefers to communicate through emails, calls, or meetings and how often they will update you. Good communication is important for staying informed about your case’s progress.
6. What Outcomes Can I Expect?
Ask the lawyer about the possible results of your case. An experienced attorney should explain the likely outcomes and help you understand what to expect.
7. What Other Ways Can I Resolve My Case?
Find out if there are alternatives to going to court, like negotiation, mediation, or arbitration. A good lawyer will explain the pros and cons of each option so you can decide what works best for you.
8. How Long Will My Case Take?
Ask how long your case might take to resolve. This helps you set realistic expectations and plan ahead. Also, discuss what happens if there are unexpected delays.
9. Can I Speak with Past Clients?
Ask if you can get references from people they’ve worked with before. Talking to past clients can give you a better idea of how the lawyer works, how effective they are, and if clients are happy with the results.
10. What If I Want to End Our Agreement?
Ask what happens if you decide to stop working with the lawyer before your case is finished. Find out if there are fees or other obligations so you understand your options and any consequences.
Wrapping Up
Reaching out to an attorney can feel intimidating, but it’s important to ask the 10 questions mentioned earlier before hiring them. Talking about these topics will give you a sense of what it’s like to work with that attorney.
Contact us at Edwards Sutarwalla Samani LLP to find a qualified attorney for your case. Dial (713) 565-1353 for a consultation.