Hints for Choosing the Attorney that is Right for You

How to pick the right Attorney for you

Due to the serious nature of litigation and the various legal needs on an individual today, it is important that you select an attorney you will want to work with. Always remembering the following:

Do not select an attorney based solely upon a television or radio advertisement. Fancy advertising does not necessarily make an attorney qualified and experienced to handle your particular matter.

Although an attorney may have many years of legal experience, he or she must have experience in handling your particular kind of matter. The attorney representing your interest must be familiar with the legal requirements of that area of the law.

Find out the identity of the attorney who will be handling your case. In some law firms, your case may be passed along to different attorneys who are not familiar with the particular facts of your matter and cannot answer your questions. At Weiss, Tom & Trapanese, LLC, we understand this flaw and always pair cases with an attorney that is familiar and experienced with the area of law your case requires.

Ask for an initial consultation with an attorney to have your questions answered. The consultation should be a personal meeting and not a telephone conversation.

Good questions to ask an Attorney

For non-litigation type cases, you want to ask

1. How many of these types of cases have you handled?
2. What percentage of your practice involves this type of law?
3. When can I expect to have the work done by?
4. What time constraints do you have?
5. What is the cost of your services?
6. Do you bill on a flat fee or hourly basis?
7. What are your hourly rates?
8. How much time do you anticipate you will spend on my matter

For litigation type cases, you want to ask the following:

1. How many of these types of cases have you handled?
2. How many of these types of cases have you settled?
3. How many of these types of cases have you tried?
4. Are you familiar with the Judge in the county where this matter is pending?
5. How do you feel about mediation or arbitration?
6. Who will be assisting you with my case?
7. What is that person's background?
8. Are you going to Court with me?
9. What can I anticipate the legal fees will be?
10. What kind of retainer will you require?
11. Do you bill on a contingency, flat fee or hourly basis?
12. What are your hourly rates?
13. How much time do you anticipate you will spend on my matter

In choosing an attorney to represent you, there has to be the right fit. Our attorneys recognize the importance of the attorney client relationship. We strive to gain the trust and confidence of our clients by matching the right attorney with the right client.