The day you get served with a lawsuit is probably a memorable one. You are likely frightened, worried, angry, and upset, and you may be unsure about what to do next. One of the most important considerations in the process is to choose an attorney to represent you and guide you through. If you have not worked with a lawyer before, choosing an attorney may seem daunting. You may receive suggestions from well-meaning friends and relatives, but it is critical to take the time to hire the best attorney for your particular situation.
Choose an Attorney with Experience
Some attorneys handle a vast array of types of cases, while others tend to take mostly certain kinds of cases. An attorney with the most experience with your particular type of legal need is always the best option. A lawyer who typically handles divorce cases may not have the experience to take on a complex business litigation case. Although you might get a lot of lawyer’s names from associates, keep in mind that you need to do some research before you make a final decision on representation. A medium to large sized law firm may have a team dedicated to particular areas of expertise, which can be extremely beneficial.
Factors to Consider
There are several factors to consider when you choose an attorney. The area of expertise is just one of the considerations. Others include the location of the law firm, the potential costs, the legal team, and the ease of communication with an attorney. You also want to hire an attorney with whom you can easily get along. You will be spending time with the attorney, so you want to make sure he or she is someone you can feel comfortable asking questions and discussing the aspects of the case. Gather information from the attorney’s website and read testimonials from previous clients.
Schedule a Consultation
A great way to learn more about a law firm is to schedule a consultation. An initial case evaluation is a short meeting where you can discuss the details of the case and learn more about the attorney. You will be able to view the office and meet others on the legal team. You can get a good feel for how well you can communicate with the lawyer and have a general sense of whether you trust the law firm to protect your rights and ensure that they take care of all your legal needs quickly and efficiently. Make a list of questions to ask the attorney during the consultation. After you meet with an attorney by phone or in person, you will be able to make an educated decision.
Choosing the right attorney when you are sued is critical to a favorable outcome of your case. Your attorney will gather documentation, conduct research, and represent you through the litigation process. At Moen Sheehan Meyer, Ltd, we have experienced attorneys and staff with expertise in a variety of cases. We are happy to set up a virtual or in-person meeting to discuss the details of your lawsuit. Contact us today at Moen Sheehan Meyer, Ltd. for a free, no-obligation consultation or call 608-784-8310.