Before committing yourself to a consultation, ask potential candidates the following questions:
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Do you provide a free consultation for the initial interview?
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How long have you been in practice?
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What percentage of your cases is similar to my type of legal problem? (A lawyer with experience in handling cases like yours will be more efficient).
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Can you provide me with any references, such as trust officers in banks, other attorneys, or clients?
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Do you represent any clients or special-interest groups that might cause a conflict of interest?
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What type of fee arrangement do you require? Are the fees negotiable?
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What information should I bring with me to the initial consultation?
Follow up your phone calls by scheduling interviews with at least two of the attorneys. Don't feel embarrassed about selecting only the best candidates or canceling appointments with some of the attorneys after you complete your initial phone calls.
Next, interview the candidates. Come prepared with a brief summary of your immediate case (including dates and facts) as well as a list of general questions for the attorney. The purpose of the interview is twofold: (1) to decide if the attorney has the necessary experience and is available to take your case; and, (2) to decide if you are comfortable with the fee arrangement and, most importantly, comfortable working with the attorney.
