According to a survey by Thomson Reuters, 23% of clients who hired a lawyer in the past two years reported being dissatisfied with their legal services. The National Law Journal also reported that in a recent year, more than 4,500 legal malpractice claims were filed in the United States, with an average payout of $342,000 per claim.
Hiring a lawyer is an important decision that should not be taken lightly. Whether you need legal representation for a personal matter or a business issue, it is crucial to find the right lawyer for your case. A study by the Legal Services Corporation found that low-income individuals who received poor legal representation were more likely to experience negative legal outcomes, such as eviction or losing custody of their children. To ensure avoiding this trap with you or someone surrounding you, read our post on important considerations when hiring a lawyer:
Expertise and Experience:
It is essential to find a lawyer with significant experience in areas revolving around your case. For example, if you need a lawyer for a personal injury case, you want someone who has experience handling similar cases and knows the in and outs of the legal process.
Reputation:
A lawyer’s reputation can say a lot about their skills and professionalism. Look for reviews and recommendations from previous clients and other lawyers in the same field. You can also check their disciplinary record with the state bar association to make sure they have a good standing.
Communication:
Good communication is key when working with a lawyer. You want someone who is responsive and keeps you updated on the progress of your case. During your initial consultation, pay attention to how they listen to your concerns and answer your questions.
Availability:
Make sure the lawyer you choose has the time and resources to handle your case effectively. If they are overloaded with other cases, they may not be able to give your case the attention it deserves.
Fees:
Lawyers have different legal fee structures, so it is important to understand how they charge for their services. Some lawyers charge an hourly rate, while others work on a contingency basis, where they only get paid if you win your case. Make sure you understand all the costs involved and get a clear fee agreement in writing.
Compatibility:
Finally, it’s important to find a lawyer who you feel comfortable working with. Your lawyer will be your advocate and guide you through a complex legal process, so it is important to find someone who you trust and understands your needs.
In addition to these considerations, there are some things to avoid when hiring a lawyer:
- Lawyers who make unrealistic promises. No lawyer can guarantee a specific outcome in your case.
- Avoid lawyers who pressurize you for an immediate hire. Take your time to research and find the right lawyer for your case.
- Who do not provide clear answers to your questions. You want a lawyer who is transparent and honest about your case.
- Avoid lawyers who do not have a clear strategy for your case. You want a lawyer who has a plan for how to handle your case effectively.
- Avoid lawyers who do not have experience in the specific area of law that your case falls under. You want a lawyer who is knowledgeable and experienced in your specific area of need.
The cost of hiring the wrong lawyer can be drastic. According to a survey by Lawyers.com, the average cost of switching lawyers in the middle of a case is $10,000. Hiring a lawyer can be a stressful process, but it is important to take your time and choose the right lawyer for your case. Consider their experience, reputation, communication skills, fees, availability, credentials, and compatibility.
Avoid lawyers who make unrealistic promises, pressure you to hire them immediately, do not provide clear answers, do not have a clear strategy, or do not have experience in your specific area of need. Following these guidelines, you can find the right lawyer to help you navigate the legal system and achieve the best possible outcome in your case.