Let’s face it, in legal matters big and small, everyone wants competent counsel who can settle the matter cost efficiently, quickly and in your favor!  For those who may not have a lawyer in the family or a high powered attorney on speed dial, how do you find the right professional for the job?  The following tips will help you to wade through the myriad of choices and find the best attorney for your legal matter.

All attorneys take the same state bar exam.  Unlike physicians, there is no specialty designation (with the exception of patent attorneys) for various areas of the law.  However, attorneys become “specialists” through their experience.  Many may choose their experience by focusing on an area that they enjoy and/or in which they have become proficient. 

Seeking out attorneys for their area of specialty will facilitate comparison between similar firms and will ensure cost efficiency.  Law firms that specialize in a particular area will have experience and readily available resources to efficiently manage your case.

Check with your local Bar Association or Legal Society to ensure that the attorney is licensed to practice in your area.  You can also check disciplinary actions with your local Lawyer Disciplinary Agency.  The internet can be helpful in researching legal professionals.  A list of links is included at the end of this article.

Many firms will provide preliminary information by phone or mail.  This will allow you to do research before making a selection.  Who are their clients?  What is their reputation? What percentage of their practice is devoted to the area of expertise you seek?  What is their track record in that area of law?

When you have done your due diligence and narrowed it down to your top 2-3 choices, interview each candidate.  It is important to remember that your attorney will be working on your behalf, and as such you must be able to develop a good working relationship.  The most well respected firm in your area of law can be the wrong firm for you if you will not be able to communicate with your lawyer.

Ask for a case management plan, which should include estimation of fees, expenses, time and of course a strategy.  Remember to clarify who will be managing your case.  Many people make the mistake of assuming that the attorney who is interviewed will handle the case, but that is not always true.  Firms often share the workload among junior associates, law clerks and others.