How to Choose an Attorney
If you are in need of legal representation, you may be at a loss as to how to go about selecting an attorney. It’s an important decision — having the right attorney can make the difference between having a successful case and one that’s denied. Below, we discuss a few key things to consider in your search for a firm and how to make a good choice.
The Right Type of Law Firm
First, only consult an attorney who practices the precise type of law for which you need counsel and representation. If you need a workers’ compensation attorney, for instance, you don’t want to go to a firm that specializes in divorce. Likewise, if you suffered injuries in a slip and fall accident, consult an injury lawyer who handles premises liability cases, not a firm that handles mostly bankruptcy cases.
You can ask your friends and relatives for referrals to lawyers they’ve used in the past, as well as do a search for reputable lawyers on the Washington State Bar Association website. Just remember to cross any prospects off of your list who don’t practice law in the area with which you need help. Our firm, for instance, handles primarily the following three areas of law.
- Workers’ compensation claims
- Personal injury claims
- Social Security disability claims
If you are in need of a criminal defense attorney or a bankruptcy lawyer, we probably won’t be the best option. However, if you suffered injuries and need a lawyer to help you obtain compensation or secure disability benefits, we might be the right choice for you.
Credentials and Qualifications
Next, check the attorney’s credentials, educational background, experience and case history. How long has he or she been practicing law? What does the case history look like? Are there testimonials or case results that you can review? Is the attorney involved in any professional organizations?
Our team, for example, has served in several local bar associations, as well as on the Washington state governor’s board, helping revise workers’ compensation laws. We are also philanthropically minded and regularly support important local organizations, including the Moses Lake Centennial Theater, the Relay for Life American Cancer Society and the Wenatchee Youth Circus.
We work hard at representing our clients in the manner they deserve, practicing law ethically and professionally, and practicing good stewardship principles. These are characteristics you’ll want to look for when looking for an attorney to represent you.
Rapport and Trust
It’s also important that you find an attorney who you trust — one who you feel has the skills, fortitude and time to handle your case effectively. Before deciding on which lawyer to hire, schedule a consultation and ask any questions you may have. It’s perfectly acceptable to ask questions such as the following.
- What’s your current caseload?
- How long does it generally take for you to return calls?
- With whom will I primarily be working on my case?
You should feel at ease with your attorney and that he or she is fully capable of handling your case. If the attorney seems rushed or harried, doesn’t have clear answers to your answers or you have no rapport, look elsewhere. The outcome of your case is too important to place in the hands of someone with whom you’re not comfortable.
Free Consultation with an Attorney in Washington
If you are in need of a lawyer in Washington for a personal injury case, a work-related claim, or a disability claim, contact our team at Calbom & Schwab for a free consultation. We’d be happy to review your case and answer any questions you may have. Call us today at 844-334-5461 to schedule a consultation at your convenience.