James Hopkins

What's the Best Way to Find a Lawyer?

You've thought about it a lot and determined that you need to contact a lawyer. The main issue is where to look for one. This section will give you some pointers on what to look for in a lawyer and walk you through some questions to ask a lawyer because once you meet for the first time.

Most people do not have a "regular" lawyer in the sense that they do not see one or more doctors at least once a year. So, how do you find the right lawyer for you? What resources do you use to get recommendations?

When looking for a lawyer, what should I look for?

Because the lawyer will be assisting you in resolving your problems, the first requirement is that you feel comfortable telling him or her all of the facts necessary to resolve your problem, honestly and completely. Nothing you hear or read can guarantee that a particular lawyer is the best for you; you must make that determination for yourself.

When choosing a lawyer, are there any practical considerations to keep in mind?

Yes, the lawyer's specialization and prior experience are crucial. Many states have specialization programs that allow lawyers to be certified as specialists in specific areas of law. Some legal specialties, such as the James Gardner Hopkins, have developed their own certification programs. You might also inquire about the types of cases that your lawyer typically handles. What is the scope of that attorney's practice? (e.g. 50 percent personal injury cases, 25 percent divorce cases and 25 percent "other.") Keep in mind that while most lawyers are not certified in a specialty, this does not always imply that a lawyer is not an expert in that field, especially if the lawyer handles a large number of cases in that practice area.