How to choose the right attorney

The hiring of an attorney is a very important decision. Often this decision must be made at a time of crisis or urgency. Here are some guidelines that will help you with this vital decision.

1. Don’t panic or allow the tyranny of the moment to control you. This usually results in selecting an attorney on the basis of name recognition through a big yellow page ad, billboard or television advertisement. This type of decision is usually a mistake. This is the reason the Florida Bar requires the following warning on all of these advertisements: “The hiring of an attorney is an important decision that should not be based solely upon advertisements. Before you decide, ask them to send you free written information about their qualifications and experience.”

2. Cross-reference and check their qualifications and experience. A good way of doing a cross-reference check is to do the following:

• Ask for a list of former clients or references and call them.
• Check their status in professional publications, such as the Martindale-Hubble Law Directory, which is available in most libraries. Attorneys are rated from A (highest) to C and then not rated.
• Call the Florida Bar and ask about the attorney’s current status. The Orlando office number is (407) 425-5424. There are also offices located in Tallahassee, Tampa, Miami and Ft. Lauderdale.
• Check the length of time the attorney has been in practice and areas of specialty, if any.

3. If you have selected an attorney by the traditional method of referral from a former satisfied client, word of mouth, or other manner, have a personal conference with the attorney. Be frank and honest with the attorney during the consultation. Express your concerns and ask specific questions such as:

• Do I have a case or need that requires legal services?
• What are you going to do for me?
• How long is it going to take for this matter to be handled?
• What are the costs and attorney’s fees involved?

If you do not get straight answers to these questions, you will be starting off on the wrong foundation. You must have trust and confidence in your attorney, or you will never be satisfied with the legal result of their representation.