A. How to Find a Lawyer

Select a lawyer with care. The right choice can mean recovery of thousands of dollars or satisfactory resolution of a conflict or other problem and peace of mind. The wrong choice can cost money and aggravation.

Phone a lawyer you know or who is recommended. Describe your problem and ask whether an interview should be scheduled. Recognize that many attorneys who competently represent clients in one area (e.g., criminal law) are not qualified to represent the same client in an employment matter because most lawyers become familiar with certain types of cases, which they handle promptly, efficiently, and profitably. When lawyers accept matters outside the realm of their daily practice, the chances of making mistakes or not handling matters promptly increases. Ask the attorney what proportion of his working time is spent dealing in the field of law related to your problem. If the lawyer states he does not commonly handle such a matter, ask for the names of other lawyers he is willing to recommend. Clients often receive excellent assistance through attorney referrals.

Ask around for recommendations. If you don't know a lawyer, ask friends or relatives if they can recommend someone.

Tip:Be wary of recommendations from people whose advice may be self-motivated.

Call a local or state bar association. These associations are listed in the phone book, and some maintain lists of lawyers who agree not to charge more than $25 for the first half hour of consultation. If experience is important, tell the person handling the inquiry that you want to contact an experienced practitioner.

Be wary of attorney advertising. Some lawyers have misled the public with their advertising. One common method is to run an advertisement which states that a particular matter costs only $XX. When a potential client meets the attorney, she learns that court costs and filing fees are $XX, but attorney's fees are extra. Also beware of advertisements that proclaim the lawyer is a "specialist." Most state bar associations have not adopted specialist certification programs.