First Steps
Get references from the Attorney
Before you hire an attorney, ask him to give you references — AND CHECK THEM! You’d be surprised the bad things people will say about their friends. Make sure you request references from attorneys they know as well as clients. Clients will give you the best clue as to the lawyer’s responsiveness. Other lawyers will give you an idea of their professionalism. Questions you want answers to:
1) Is the attorney too busy to handle my case?
2) Does the lawyer return client (or other) phone calls and emails promptly?
3) Is the lawyer organized?
4) Does the attorney “show well” in court?
5) Did the lawyer get a good result for you?
6) Is the attorney afraid to go to trial?
7) How helpful is the attorney’s staff?
8) What is the lawyer’s reputation in the community?