Just like any other business, looking for a good lawyer who can represent you is vital if you want to win.
There are lawyers who specialize in fields such as tax, personal injury, intellectual property, divorce, family, criminal, etc. For example, you live in or near Galveston, search for a lawyer that fits your criteria and decide.
If you’re seeking legal assistance, your potential lawyer will ask you questions and you provide documents relating to your case. You’ll also ask them questions in regards to your case.
Read on to learn about the questions to ask your potential lawyer during that initial meeting.
- What similar cases have you handled?
For your case to win, you’ll need a lawyer who has worked on similar cases as yours. Better yet ask how many cases they’ve won.
Asking this question will give you more insights into how the lawyer will handle your case.
- How long have you practiced law?
Experience is everything when it comes to hiring a lawyer. Since it’ll give you an assurance about their credibility.
But, sometimes even a lawyer who’s fresh from law school might win your case. It just depends on if they know what they’re doing.
Just ask what areas of law they specialize in.
- What are the fees?
Remember you’re asking for their services and these services need to be paid for.
It’s important if you know how much you’ll need to spend on the case to see if it’ll be within your budget.
Also, enquire about their methods of payment. Will it be hourly or fixed?
Most experienced lawyers represent their clients on a contingency basis, where they get paid when the case is won.
- What strategies will you use?
Some lawyers may be hesitant in giving you their strategies if they’re not paid a retainer or signed a contract.
An honest lawyer who’s willing will discuss with you their strategies or alternatives depending on if your case can be solved off-court or you’ll need arbitration.
Look for a lawyer who has your best interests at heart but not just for money.
- Who’s your typical client?
You need to know the type of clients your potential lawyer represents. If you’re an individual, then you need a lawyer who represents individuals and not corporate.
Search about their previous clients’ financial background. Because lawyers who represent individual clients may have specific factors when working with high-end clients.
- How will you communicate with me about the case?
Communication is vital in every business. You need to know how the lawyer intends to inform you about the case progress.
Ask how you’ll communicate. If it’s via phone, email, skype, or a visit to their office, or outside the office.
- What experience do you have that’ll benefit my case?
Other than experience in law, check if your potential lawyer has other training or certifications that’ll help in winning your case.
Some cases like patents or DUI need special training for proper representation.
Lawyers with plenty of courtroom experience have gone through rigorous training. Meaning this is a good thing if you find one.
- What will be the outcome of this case?
It’s difficult to determine the success rate of any case depending on various variables that may affect the process.
Your potential lawyer will compare your case’s outcome with the similar cases they’ve handled in the past. And the strategies they have for your case.
Final Words
Do your research well and settle for a lawyer who will not only win your case but will ensure you get the justice you deserve.