When Hiring a Lawyer, It's Important to Find a Specialist

The days of the legal generalist are over. While there are still lawyers who offer to do any kind of work that comes their way, the complexity of the legal system and the complicated lives we all lead almost require that prospective clients shopping for a lawyer look for someone who specializes in their type of legal issue.

Attorneys can range from corporate and real estate lawyers to those specializing in social security claims, workers compensation appeals, labor disputes, and personal injury law. Each specialty requires an understanding of state and sometimes federal laws and regulations that define how any dispute will be decided.

So how do you know which lawyer to hire? First, you need to understand what issue or issues you are facing. Some will be easy to define; if you've applied for social security disability insurance and been denied, for instance, you need a lawyer who deals with federal disability issues. If you've been injured in an auto accident, the issues can be more complex. You may have to deal with your health insurance company, your auto insurance company, the auto or liability insurance companies of others involved in the accident-which can sometimes be multiple parties-plus the police, hospitals, ambulance providers, and so on. You will need someone who can sort out all these issues and protect your interests in the process.

When hiring an attorney, you need to ask a lot of questions; for instance:
  • How many cases have you handled on this issue?
  • How many times have you gone to trial over this issue?
  • How many claims have you settled out of court?
  • How many times have you won a case like this?
  • What chance do I have to win my case?
  • What type of financial or other type of settlement can I expect?
  • What will it cost me to pursue this case? Make sure you understand both the fee structure and other expenses, such as court filings, copying and telephone costs, and the many other expenses that can quickly add up.

    Make sure you have someone with a track record for your particular type of case, and someone with a commitment to your interests. If you get the idea that your case will get short shrift, go elsewhere.

    Criminal law is another specialty, and one with potentially high stakes. Your liberty and sometimes your life may be at stake; so if you are faced with a criminal proceeding of any kind, hire a criminal lawyer. Accepting help from Uncle Harry who has had twenty years of experience with real estate law is not an option-at least not if you value your freedom.

    Still not sure what kind of legal representation you need? Contact your state's legal association; look in the Yellow Pages under "attorneys," or call your state attorney general's office and ask to be referred to the state legal organization. Someone there should be able to listen to your problem and provide a referral to an attorney that specializes in your issue.



    Aldene Fredenburg is a freelance writer living in southwestern New Hampshire. She has written numerous articles for local and regional newspapers and for a number of Internet websites, including Tips and Topics.