At some point, we are all going to need a lawyer. This could be for a wide variety of reasons. For instance perhaps your wife cheated on you, and you want a divorce. Or, maybe you are just selling your house. Perhaps your neighbour ran over your foot in his car. The world works based on a system of law and eventually, for better or worse, we are going to need it to have our back. We will hire a lawyer or solicitor. But, what should you look for in a lawyer before you choose to hire?
- Charisma
Do not underestimate the need for your lawyer to be charming. If they are defending you, they will need to get a jury or judge then their side. If they are suing for the damage, they will need to gather evidence. You should think of a lawyer as sales agent because that is exactly what they are. Only they are selling an idea. That idea is that you are right.
2) Background
Ideally you want a lawyer with a good background of legal cases. Preferably they should have won most of these. If you want to find out how successful a lawyer is, take note of the car they drive and their office building. Although ultimately a lawyer’s level of success will match their pay grade. You may not be able to afford the best, but you should certainly not settle for the worse.
3) Speciality
It would be best if you hired a lawyer who specialises in the problem you are facing. For example, Shrader & Associates is a firm that specialises in asbestos poisoning suits. So, naturally if you want to sue a company for asbestos poisoning you would contact a firm like theirs. Similarly, if you have faced an injury at work, you will need a personal injury lawyer. If it is your company, that is being sued then a seek out a solicitor who specialises in premise liability. The advantage of hiring a lawyer from a specialised firm is that they will be able to offer you expert advice on the situation.
4) Tenacious
Being charming is fantastic but it will not be enough. Your lawyer needs to be tough as well. Remember, they are going into battle for you. A legal battle, but a battle all the same. You do not want a solicitor to give up and roll over at the first sign of defeat. You need them to keep fighting for you. Although, beware of lawyers with big egos. Pick one that you know will always have your best interests at heart.
Firm or Independent?
There are several advantages from hiring from a firm. First you will have the expertise of a team of lawyers rather than an individual. Second, they are easy to find as they have a lot of money for marketing. Third, they will commonly be well respected in law society. However, there are also advantages to hiring an independent attorney. They may have a small client list which means you will receive more of their time. Their costs may be lower, and they might work on a pay if you win basis. They might also be local to your area. You will have to weigh these matters carefully when choosing.
However, if your lawyer had the top four qualities you can be feel assured they were an excellent choice. Regardless of whether they were from a firm or ran their own private law business.