You’re looking for a lawyer? Finding the right lawyer can be difficult. Most people only need to see a lawyer a few times in their lives.
No lawyer is right for every case or for every client. Here are some important things you should look for when you need to choose a lawyer to help you with your legal problem.
Experience
Every lawyer begins as a new lawyer. Many new lawyers are bright and talented and will have successful careers. When new lawyers handle litigation, they typically start with small, simple cases, often working under the supervision of a more experienced lawyer. After they acquire experience, they begin to work on more complex matters.
Experience allows lawyers to gain skills that can’t be acquired in law school, including:
- Negotiating with a seasoned lawyer or insurance adjuster
- Valuing a case for settlement
- Picking a sympathetic jury
- Cross-examining witnesses
- Making effective arguments to juries
- Persuading judges to make rulings that favor a client
Expertise
Small town lawyers tend to do a bit of everything. They incorporate small businesses, they probate estates, they defend shoplifters, they draft contracts, they help people file bankruptcies. Maybe they handle an occasional car accident case involving minor injuries. When cases demand a greater level of expertise general practice lawyers usually refer cases to lawyers who limit their practice to just a few areas.
Reputation
Over time, lawyers develop a reputation. Lawyers who have a reputation for excellence are usually a good choice if they have time to take your case.
One way to learn about a lawyer’s reputation is to ask friends about lawyers they have used in cases that are similar to yours.
Integrity
Everyone knows a lawyer joke. Most lawyer jokes suggest that attorneys are shady or dishonest. And let’s be clear: some lawyers fit that stereotype. But most don’t. Most lawyers are honest, hardworking, and dedicated to their crafts.
Good lawyers know that their reputations are everything. They don’t cheat their clients because they depend on clients to refer their friends who need a lawyer. A satisfied client is the best kind of advertising.
Compassion
Some attorneys see law as a job. The best lawyers view law as a way to bring justice to people who need help. Good lawyers care about their clients.
During an initial interview, lawyers need to ask lots of questions to learn the important facts of the case. But good lawyers listen carefully to the answers and make clear that they understand a client’s concerns.
Rapport
Clients spend significant time with the lawyer they hire. If a case goes to trial, a lawyer and client will spend hours together in preparation. No client wants to spend that amount of time with someone they dislike.
Clients and lawyers need to communicate with each other effectively. They need to respect each other. Lawyers need to understand a client’s goals and clients need to understand that a lawyer will help them understand whether their goals are achievable.
Talented Defense Attorneys at Davis, Ermis, and Roberts
The legal system can be complicated and overwhelming, which is why you have the right to be represented by an attorney who can properly defend your case in court. If you’re looking for an experienced attorney who cares, hire one of the top-notch lawyers at Davis, Ermis and Roberts.
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