6 Key Questions To Help You Choose The Right Attorney
Posted by: Adair M. Buckner
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With so many lawyers out there, it's difficult to know which is the right one for you. But you don't have to settle for an attorney who isn't a good fit for you or your legal matter.
When researching lawyers, there are 6 key questions to ask to help ensure a good fit. It's especially important to work with a lawyer you are comfortable with and can trust.
6 Key Key Questions To Ask An Attorney Before Hiring:
1) What's Your Experience With Matters Like This?
You will want an attorney that has handled a fair number of matters like yours unless it is a really unusual, one-of-a-kind situation. Ask the attorney what experience they have had in similar matters.
2) What's Your Plan For Handling This Legal Matter?
It is important for you to press the attorney for as much detail as possible about all of the steps they will take to address your situation.
In this process, it's a good idea to also ask the attorney whether there is an alternative course that would produce the same results for less cost and effort. You should be aware of what will be involved going into the representation.
3. What Communication Will You Have With Me?
A common complaint of clients is that they don't know what is going on with their legal matter or that they cannot get in touch with their attorney.
You should ask the attorney how they will keep you informed of the progress of your matter and the best way for you to communicate with them, whether by cell phone, email, or a business phone.
4. What Will I Be Required To Do?
You need to understand what role you will be required to play in moving your matter forward as quickly and inexpensively as possible.
The lawyer should outline for you what documents or other information you will need to provide, what meetings with the lawyer will be required, what hearings you will need to participate in, and like steps.
5. What Is This Going To Cost Me?
You may want to put this as number 1 on your list of questions. However, the lawyer needs to cover the initial questions with you to help determine the likely cost.
The lawyer may not be able to give you an exact amount because of variables that could occur in the handling of the matter. He or she likely can give you at least an estimate of the fees and expenses if the matter proceeds in a usual fashion. Don't be afraid to ask. 6. How Long Will It Take To Resolve The Matter?
Ask your attorney how long the resolution of your legal matter will take. You should be able to get a fair estimate of the usual timeline in a similar matter.
That said, the lawyer may not be able to give you an exact timeframe because of many factors outside the attorney's control, such as the court's schedule, difficulty getting cooperation from others involved in the matter, and emergencies that may arise in the lawyer's schedule.
You Deserve An Attorney Who Has Your Best Interests At Heart
Although contacting an attorney for possible representation can be intimidating, you should feel comfortable asking the attorney these key questions. Your interaction concerning these matters can help you get a feel for what it might be like to work with the attorney.
If you do not have a good feeling about working with this attorney after your initial conversation, keep looking. The relationship needs to start out on a good footing.
If you are in need of a qualified, honest, and competent attorney in the Amarillo area,contact Adair M. Buckner, Attorney at Law. To schedule a free consultation* to discuss your legal matter, call 806.220.0150 or email Adair at adair@adairbuckner.com.
*(The free consultation does not cover actual review of documents or giving legal advice on a specific situation.)
** This material has been prepared for informational purposes only, and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, specific tax, legal, or accounting advice. We can only give specific advice upon consulting directly with you and reviewing your exact situation.
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