Searching for a Lawyer
Searching for a lawyer can be a challenging task, especially for anyone who does not have prior experience looking for or working with a lawyer. An important first step is to focus your search on finding a lawyer who has knowledge and experience relevant to your particular legal problem. In most circumstances, you should also focus your search on lawyers who are dedicated to providing legal advice and representation in the jurisdiction where you need legal help.
Asking for a referral from someone who you trust is one way to conduct a search. Another way is to use an online directory of attorneys, such as Avvo.com or Lawyers.com. Online directories generally allow users to focus their searches by practice area and geographic area.
You should carefully research a lawyer before retaining him or her, such as by confirming that the lawyer is licensed to practice law in the jurisdiction where you need legal help, determining how long the lawyer has been practicing law, and finding out whether the lawyer has ever been disciplined for unethical conduct. In the District of Columbia, you can obtain some of this information by going to the website of the District of Columbia Bar Association and searching its member directory.
You should also research the lawyer’s background by reviewing the lawyer’s website, as well as information published in online directories, such as those mentioned above, which may include biographical statements, client reviews, and ratings. Client reviews also are published by Google.
Another important step is to speak directly with each lawyer you are considering to discuss your matter. And you should consider speaking with multiple lawyers so you can find one who suits your particular needs.
The process is completed when you formally retain an attorney to provide legal advice or representation, which is generally done by having a written retainer agreement. You should carefully review the terms (and especially the financial terms) of any proposed retainer agreement to make certain that you understand the terms and that they are acceptable to you.
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