Whether you are facing criminal charges or want to pursue a settlement for your negligence case, having the right lawyer working on your case can make all the difference. Simply hiring the first lawyer that runs across your TV screen could lead to disastrous consequences, including a high bill and no settlement.
In San Diego, where many of my friends live, attorneys are a dime a dozen–but quality legal representation that is affordable can be hard to come by. However, with a little bit of know how, you can hire the right lawyer for your case:
Assess Your Needs
Before you even begin looking for a lawyer, you need to first determine you need. Are you facing divorce? DUI accusations? Being sued? Lawyers often specialize in different types of law, and choosing a generic lawyer may not be in your favor. By choosing a lawyer that is specialized in your area of legal counsel, you will only increase the likelihood of you winning your case.
For example, a few years back I had a friend dealing with a particularly tricky IRS issue. We ended up driving by a billboard for Allen Barron Tax Attorney help in San Diego and I immediately recommended calling up the law office. In this particular case, enlisting the help of a specialized attorney was the right move, as my friend was able to clear away his tax troubles without declaring bankruptcy.
Research, Recommendations, Reviews
Taking the time to research and hire a quality lawyer will increase the odds of your success in recovering a structured settlement in court or dismissing criminal charges. To find the lawyer you need, check out a listing from your local American Bar Association. The ABA is the regulatory authority for lawyers and publishes a list of the top lawyers in different fields every year.
Other great ways to find a good lawyer is by asking for recommendations from friends and family members, as well as reading online reviews. These individuals may have had similar legal needs as you, and by getting their input, you will be able to more effectively determine which lawyer is right for you.
Have Cash On Hand
Be prepared to pay high legal fees for the best lawyers in your area. While hiring one of these high priced lawyers may seem like overkill, it will be worth your time and money as they tend to possess extensive legal knowledge and have solid connections in the legal world.
If you find that a lawyer charges high fees and you can’t afford these legal fees initially, consider asking for a payment plan. Never allow your financial situation to keep you from hiring the best legal representation possible. You deserve to have the best lawyer working on your legal case. It’s worth the investment.
When it comes time to face the judge, you will be glad that you chose to take the time to find a quality specialized lawyer who can devote the time needed to your case in order to get your DUI charges dismissed or your tax settlement resolved. The top lawyers want to advocate for you and obtain results for your case. They want to make sure you receive the settlement you deserve to pay for your legal fees and court costs.