Before you hire a lawyer, sit down and define the problem that you have. Sometimes, you may find that your situation is not bad enough to warrant a lawyer. Understanding exactly what you are going through can help save you a lot of money over time with a lawyer and court fees.
Never hire the first lawyer you come across. There are so many out there that it can be tempting to select the first one you come in contact with. Take your time and consult with a few before you make your decision. You don't want to make the mistake of choosing the wrong one.
It is hugely important that you know exactly what your lawyer plans to do for you. They should lay it out in writing, preferably, before you sign on the dotted line. If they get you to sign a legal document they have drafted without explaining it, run the other way.
Choose a lawyer you trust. If you need a lawyer for professional or business matters, then this is extremely crucial. Signing blank checks or paying a retainer fee is something a lot of lawyers request. You literally are putting your financial future in the hands of the lawyer. Make sure you protect yourself!
If you need to hire a lawyer but don't know where to start, try looking in a lawyer directory such as Nolo. This directory offers a comprehensive profile of all attorneys. The profile provides important information such as his education, experience, fees and the lawyer's basic philosophy of law. This information can be invaluable in selecting a good lawyer.
Use the Internet prior to choosing an attorney. Not only can you find attorney listings and backgrounds, but you can find a lot of legal help. Legal-focused forums exist that can give you background information about your matter and guide you to the right specialists. Simple legal matters, like making a will, can sometimes also be handled through legal websites.
Do you feel like you can better handle the selection process now for an attorney? If so, you should make sure you keep everything you've read in mind as you go about hiring yourself a lawyer. Remember that the right lawyer means better chances of winning your case, and knowing how to find the right one saves you much time.