If there is a lawyer who is aggressively seeking your business, you should avoid them. If you are involved in a case that can be costly, they may be trying to scam you. Do your due diligence and hire the best lawyer on your terms.
While being faced with the higher costs of a lawyer who specializes in the field you need may be overwhelming, you will often find that it costs less by the end of your case. A general attorney will have to spend billable hours background researching your case, so you may end up paying out more in the long run.
Listen to the advice your lawyer gives you, but keep in mind that they are working for you. Speak up if there is something your lawyer wants or says that makes you uncomfortable. While your lawyer works for your best interest, they may have quite the case load.
Do not choose a lawyer if you are feeling unsure about them. This holds true with their fees too. Also, when it comes to the retainer, do not give the lawyer a blank check with your signature. Figure out the fees upfront so that you’re able to control what the costs are before losing control of them while your case is going on.
When you interact with a lawyer, be sure to make note of it. Write down the date, time, items of importance, amount of money that was paid, etc. This can help eliminate any problems that can arise later.
Avoid handing over big retainers to lawyers prior to them taking your case. Make sure that you are going to be refunded for any money that isn’t used if you do put up a retainer. Additionally, it may pay to shop around and find a lawyer who doesn’t want such a big retainer.
Local bar associations keep track of complaints against their members so always check with them for information about potential lawyers. If there’s a couple, they shouldn’t spoil the deal. Do hire another lawyer if they have tons of complaints.