Ten Tips for Choosing a Lawyer
- Tap Your Social Networks
If you’re like most people, you’re connected to friends and family through social networks like Facebook. Besides keeping in touch with friends and sharing family photos, social networks are a great way to get referrals from people you actually know and trust. One quick question on Facebook could get you dozens of referrals for lawyers in your area. - Look Online
The vast majority of established lawyers now have websites and enough online presence to show their backgrounds. Before you choose a law firm, find them online and see what they have to say about themselves, their case history, and their credentials. The more you can find out before you choose a lawyer, the better. - Choose Experience
Everyone loves an underdog, but do you really want one fighting your case? No, of course not. The hard truth is that the more experienced and knowledgeable your lawyer, the more likely you are to reach a fair and reasonable settlement. In fact, if you have nothing else to go on, the number one factor to consider when selecting a lawyer is how experienced he or she is. - Look for a Good Reputation
A good reputation is hard to earn but easy to lose. When looking for a lawyer, be sure to look for one who is in good standing with the Better Business Bureau and has positive reviews online. The more good reviews, the better. - Do a Background Check
It’s now easier than ever to conduct informal background checks online using social media, business associations and other online resources. In just a few minutes, you can typically find out where a lawyer went to school, how long they have been practicing, what cases they’ve won, and more. - Consult a Bar Association
Another excellent way to research a Milwaukee lawyer or law firm online is to visit the American Bar Association or the Wisconsin Bar Association. Reputable local lawyers often have full profiles on one of the two websites, as well as published articles. - Ask Questions
A good lawyer will want you to fully understand your options and rights, as well as his or her ability to successfully litigate your case. Important questions that you may want to consider asking include:- What are the pros and cons of your case?
- How long is your case likely to take to settle?
- What is the likelihood that it will go to trial?
- Who will be working your case?
- Is he or she board certified in personal injury litigation?
- Do you ever represent insurance companies in other injury related matters?
- Is my attorney accessible?
- Will I initially meet with an investigator or staff person or will I be able to meet the attorney who will handle my case?
- Trust Your Instincts
If your first impressions of a lawyer or firm aren’t good, they’re likely not the best legal representation for you. Experienced lawyers are typically confident enough in their skills and knowledge to present themselves well. If they cannot, how can you trust them to present your case well in court? - Consider Caseload
Although you want an experienced lawyer, you still need to make sure that your new attorney will have time to actually handle your case. Consider asking how many cases he or she is currently handling. Or, consider working with a firm that has multiple attorneys. - Choose a Skilled and Respected Professional
Depending on your need, working with a generalist can be great. But when it comes to something as important as choosing a lawyer, it’s in your best interests to choose someone who has legal expertise specifically related to your case. For instance, a good personal injury attorney probably wouldn’t do a good job of litigating your divorce, but that same attorney might do an excellent job litigating a car accident lawsuit on your behalf. Whenever possible, pick a skilled and respected attorney who handles only personal injury matters.
Domnitz & Domnitz, S.C. are experienced Milwaukee personal injury lawyers eager to help those injured in accidents recover the damages to which they’re entitled. Why not do business with someone you like?