Legal Consumer Tips
1) Don't believe everything you see in an advertisement
Advertising is often designed to entice you to purchase products or services you don't really need. This includes lawyer advertising. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Many reputable lawyers don't advertise. Don't assume that the size of a yellow page ad means that a lawyer is better qualified than one who does not advertise.
2) Don't hire a lawyer who calls you on the phone or visits you in person
Be wary if a lawyer, or someone acting on behalf of a lawyer, solicits you without your permission in connection with an accident. This is "ambulance chasing" and it's against the Legal Rules of Professional Conduct. When a lawyer breaks these rules to get your business, he's probably not the kind of lawyer you want representing you.
3) Make sure you understand what you're paying for and what you aren't
No two contingency fee arrangements are alike. Find out if your lawyer will take his fee "off the top" or only after all the expenses are tallied. Insist on getting this information in writing and in clear, direct language. Typical expenses include court costs (fees for filing a lawsuit), court reporter fees, and copies of transcripts, expert witness and private investigator fees, postage, courier service, photocopying, legal research, out-of-town air or car transportation, hotel and meal expenses.
4) Know how you can fire a lawyer
Some contracts specify that even if you fire a lawyer, he still gets a large percentage of any future award or settlement you may receive on the case. Make sure you know how to fire your lawyer before you hire him.
5) Check your lawyer's record
Ask your State Bar Association if your lawyer is licensed to practice. If possible, do some of your homework. Look into your lawyer's past conduct and ethics. Knowing if your lawyer has a pattern of questionable conduct could alert you to potential problems and save you time, money and aggravation.
6) Make sure your lawyer gives you all of your options and advises you on the potential disadvantages of bringing a lawsuit
Lawyers don't just sue. In fact, suing can be one of the more expensive ways for you to get compensated. Make sure your lawyer has an open mind about alternative means to resolve your problem such as mediation or arbitration. Litigation is time consuming. Depositions and court appearances can interfere with your employment or family activities. Weigh the potential disadvantages before you bring a lawsuit.
7 Talk to more than one lawyer
Interview three lawyers before selecting one. Lawyers have different ways of working with clients. It is important that you find someone who has the skills you need. Focus on what you want to know -ask for references, recent cases they've handled, whether or not they have tried cases in court, if they will have a less experienced lawyer working on your case instead of handling it themselves, or if they will refer you to a different lawyer if it looks like you will be going to court. Never sign anything until you have time to review it and consider other offers. Do not sign anything you do not fully understand.
8) Be aware of referral fee arrangements
Make sure you specifically ask who will be handling your case. If the lawyer you initially contact passes your case along to another lawyer, the first lawyer may be getting a "referral fee." New rules require disclosure to the client of any referral fee arrangements and require the initial lawyer to maintain a certain level of involvement in and responsibility for a case.