How to Choose an Attorney

The first issue someone faces after they discover a need for legal counsel is how to choose the right attorney. First choice = first post. Makes sense to me!

Here are a few ideas about where to start looking for legal counsel and a few considerations when evaluating if an attorney will be the right fit for you.

Places to Start

1. Google it 

Seems simple, right? You probably already thought of this one, but depending on your search terms, you might end up combing through a long list of possible attorneys. The tough part is finding one you can afford, like, and has knowledge and experience specific to your issue.

Make sure your search terms are fairly specific. I recommend using this formula: location + practice area + "attorney" or "lawyer". An example of this may be "Denver family law attorney" or "Aurora Colorado business contract lawyer". If money is a major factor in choosing an attorney, add the word "affordable" to your search terms. However, most attorneys avoid using affordability language on their websites - it's something that most attorneys are taught can undercut the quality and trustworthiness aspects, which can often be more important to prospective clients.

2. Use an attorney referral service

State or local bar associations and other private referral services can put you in contact with attorneys practicing in your geographic area. If your state or a local bar association has an attorney referral service, they are usually free.

However, you may get a long list of attorneys to choose from, or you may be contacted by lawyers with less experience with your specific legal issue. If you use a private service, some charge extra and may have the same limitations as the free services.

Depending on your situation, however, either can be a good option.

3. Ask a friend

A lot of attorneys get new clients by referral from past clients or people in their community. If you are comfortable asking a friend, family member, or coworker for a recommendation, you could save yourself a lot of time by getting a referral from someone you know.

Sometimes if you call an attorney who can't take your case, possibly because they are too busy or don't practice in the relevant area of law, they may be willing to refer you to other lawyers. Attorney conduct rules prohibit unethical fee sharing deals, so you should be able to trust other attorneys' recommendations.

Other Considerations When Choosing an Attorney

Get a Second Opinion.

Just like the age-old advice with doctors, you should always get a second opinion from another attorney on your case if possible. If nothing else, you should contact multiple attorneys to get a better idea of their hourly rates, availability, and ability to take on your case.

Check your funds.

Money is always a big factor when retaining an attorney. Hourly rates can seem daunting, and if the price is too high - don't be afraid to walk away.

Attorneys set hourly rates based on experience and skill level. A high hourly rate usually means an attorney has cultivated a great reputation, has years or even decades of experience, and knows what he or she is talking about. Lots of experience may also mean that the attorney will need to spend fewer billable hours understanding your issue or researching the law in question.

Simple issues probably don't require an attorney with 10+ years of experience who charge over $500 an hour, but a newly minted attorney probably shouldn't be handling a complex case against another party who has a big legal team. And if you ever see an attorney who has never handled a case like yours before but wants to charge a premium rate, go elsewhere. Immediately.

There are tons of attorneys out there, each with different price points and amounts of relevant experience. It might take a little leg work, but it will be worth it to find the right one.