The majority of our clients come to us with no prior knowledge about what it’s like to work with an attorney. No one prepares to get into legal trouble. And knowing where to being can be overwhelming.
How do you know who you will work best with? How do you know who will fight for you? How do you know who is competent and well versed in the area of law that you need?
We hope to shed some light on the subject. Keep reading for our brief guide on how to hire a lawyer.
How do I know if I need a lawyer?
First things first, many individuals are unsure whether or not they really need a lawyer. To cut to the chase, if you’re nervous about a law-related issue or if you’re questioning hiring a lawyer – we recommend that you reach out to a lawyer to discuss your options. It is best to be as prepared as possible. It’s better to stay on the safe side.
Common reasons to seek legal counsel:
- Car accidents
- Workplace Injuries
- Slip and Fall Accidents
- Wrongful Death
- Medical Malpractice or Nursing Home Negligence
- Bicycle or Motorcycle Accidents
- And more
Read More: Can You Switch Lawyers in a Personal Injury Case?
What about legal fees and costs?
A common deterrent to hiring an attorney is the unknown as far as costs and fees go. Fortunately, this is something that you can and should ask your prospective attorney.
It is fairly common that a lawyer will be paid through contingency fees, meaning that they won’t get paid until they secure a reasonable settlement or compensation for their client. Typically, a lawyer will be compensated a percentage of the settlement. There are also lawyers that charge hourly or that require a retainer. Specific percentages and additional costs should be discussed with your lawyer prior to working together.
How do I choose a lawyer?
When you begin your search for a lawyer, you will likely start with a simple Google search. It’s important to find a lawyer that practices the type of law that you need. We also like to recommend to people that are on the search for a lawyer, that it’s a good idea to ask around. If any of your friends or family can recommend an attorney, that is a great place to start.
It can be beneficial to consult with multiple lawyers, ask for a consultation and interview them. Ask about costs and fees that could be associated. You can ask them about their experiences with cases like yours. Ask them how they communicate with their clients and what you should expect from them. After consulting with a few options, you will probably find one that feels like a good fit. It’s important to remember that a client-lawyer relationship can be very intimate and you should feel good about working with whoever you chose.
If you’re on the search for an experienced lawyer in the Tampa Bay area, our attorneys at Pipas Law are ready to help you. Call us today to speak with an attorney about your case.
