If you have an issue that requires the advice and expertise of an attorney, finding the right lawyer can be a frustrating process. Friends and relatives are quick to give a name or reference. It seems like every Georgian has met the “best” attorney around. But there are many Athens lawyers and it may be in your interest to take some time and go through the process of deciding which qualities meet your unique needs. Here are a few things to think about when hiring a law firm.

Do Your Research

Many law offices tend to handle a few specific areas. You may have seen advertisements for divorce, personal injury, workers’ compensation and bankruptcy attorneys. Those advertisements are a good indicator about the type of work an attorney deals with on a daily basis. You wouldn’t hire a painter to fix your plumbing even though they’re both in construction. So, why hire a Real Estate lawyer to file a disability claim? When an attorney works in a specific area of law, they know the lay of the land and sound methods to help you.

Experience Matters

You’ll find that many lawyers in Athens, GA. Narrowing your search down by practice area is an excellent way to find the right attorney for you. The second aspect should be experience. The longer someone has practiced law, the greater their familiarity with your potential case and related processes. For things like workers’ compensation and disability claims, long-standing professional relationships can make a difference. You’ll likely be able to narrow your search down by reviewing their backgrounds on LinkedIn and other online resources.

The Interview

Most attorneys provide new clients with a free consultation. From their perspective, the appointment is an opportunity to find out the facts about your situation and decide whether or not a legal action can be taken. Not every set of circumstances rises to the level of litigation.

This meeting doesn’t put you under any obligation to formally hire that attorney. Take the opportunity to ask the lawyer questions.

• Do they prefer out-of-court settlements?
• Do they have malpractice insurance?
• What will the estimated fees amount to for your case?
• How often can you expect to be updated?

You may want to ask yourself if you feel comfortable and compatible working with this particular law office. Remember, you’re under no obligation to hire the first lawyer you meet. Find an attorney in Athens that suits your needs.

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Morgan Lawyers