Ask lawyers for their history before you hire them. A lawyer may have his or her own practice, but this does not always equal success. Find out about their record to judge their skills.
Ask any lawyer prospects about their fees up front. Fees can vary based on numerous factors, such as the lawyer's experience and demand. You need to be aware of how much you are going to pay, or at least a ball-park estimate, prior to hiring them. You do not want to lose your lawyer after your matter has already proceeded because you lack the funds.
Imagine taking on a lawyer who is about to enter court for the first time. That's what will happen if you take a general lawyer into a case where a specializing lawyer is a better bet. Ask any lawyer you know for their recommendations, and you'll be pleased with the outcome.
A general practitioner is not always your best option. You might have a good lawyer you trust, but do not hesitate to hire a specialized lawyer if you need help with an issue your lawyer has no experience with. Do not hesitate to ask your usual lawyer for a referral.
Look for people who have experienced similar problems and ask them which lawyers they used. Your friends and relatives might be helpful but do not follow their suggestions unless you need a lawyer for the same kind of issues. Use the different resources available in your community, such as support groups.
It is important to think about the specialty of a lawyer your are hiring. You want to make sure you hire the lawyer you need. You do not want to hire a lawyer that specializes in criminal law to do your estate planning. Choosing a lawyer that specializes in whatever area of law you need, will guarantee you get someone who has a lot of experience in that area and can do a good job.
Armed with this information, you should have no trouble selecting a lawyer. Keep this advice in mind to find an attorney that will help you. Choosing your lawyer carefully will improve your chances of winning your case.