Finding the Perfect Family Lawyer

Most people, when looking for a family lawyer, are faced with a crisis so the task is daunting and overwhelming for the average person. Unlike the rich and famous who have lawyers on retainer and can hire the "right" well known celebrity lawyers, normal people only talk to lawyers on a "need-to" basis. Not only are the circumstances of the need to hire a lawyer unsettling but also the search for a lawyer becomes stressful. Thus, it is important to find the perfect lawyer in the beginning so the client is not scrambling down the road regretting his/her decision.

Here are Ten Steps to getting started in your search to find the perfect family lawyer.

  1. The fastest way to find names of lawyers is online or in the yellow pages. Another option is to contact legal directories to find the names of lawyers in your area. The library is another starting point for finding names as well.
  2. Before contacting a lawyer, write down the specific requirements of the job and also what you expect in the lawyer. Be prepared when calling the lawyers' receptionists in order to make a small final list of candidates from which to choose.
  3. Many lawyers offer a consultation meeting so that you may ask questions and they can decide if they will take the case. Some lawyers do charge for this first meeting.
  4. Find a lawyer who is familiar with your particular issue. If you are only looking for someone to help you file a will and power of attorney papers in case of emergency, then it will be much easier to find a lawyer. If, on the other hand, you and your children have moved from your home because of an abusive situation, a family lawyer who deals in wills will not be very effective for your case. You need to find someone who regularly represents battered women and understands the court process and nuances of the situation.
  5. To a certain extent, you must like the lawyer and trust him/her. If you cannot ask questions and you are so terrified of the person, then it might be better to find someone else.
  6. List questions that you would like to know the answers before getting too far into the relationship. For example:
    - How long should the case take to resolve?
    - How much money should you expect to spend?
    - How much money do you need upfront?
    - Does the lawyer charge a flat rate fee for specific services or by the hour rates?
  7. Be careful when settling for "a friend of a friend" type situation. While people are well meaning, if the lawyer is representing you because the friend asked and he has no experience in your situation, you will have a problem.
  8. Set a budget before making your final decision. It is not necessary to choose the cheapest lawyer but lawyers' fees vary dramatically and you may as well eliminate those that you cannot afford.
  9. Once you have narrowed down your list of potential lawyers, compare the answers and prices. Determine which is the best direction for you.
  10. Choose the lawyer and set up an appointment for another meeting.