How to Find a Reliable Lawyer in the Golden State

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How to Find a Reliable Lawyer in the Golden State
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When you face a situation that requires legal assistance, finding the right attorney is one of the most critical decisions you can make. A good lawyer should serve as a trusted advisor. They should be able to help you successfully navigate even the most complicated matter. When you need an attorney, though, choosing one can feel overwhelming. This is especially true for those who have never needed a lawyer before. 

Fortunately, finding a reliable lawyer is relatively straightforward if you know where to look and what questions to ask. Lawyers tend to specialize, so selecting one with the right background and experience is essential. For example, a family law attorney is very different from a personal injury lawyer. In addition, you'll need to choose a lawyer who is actually licensed to practice in California.  

The following tips should help you make the best decision based on your situation. 

Ask Trusted Family and Friends for a Referral

Asking for a legal referral from trusted friends, co-workers, or family members can prove quite beneficial. Understanding how the law office works with clients and the lawyer's communication style is paramount. Learning about someone's personal experience offers insight into more than just an attorney's legal talents. 

For these reasons, personal referrals are one of the most tried-and-true ways to find a reliable legal professional. If possible, ask a lawyer you know to refer a colleague who practices law in the area where you need advice.

Research Attorneys Using Reputable Online Databases 

When seeking information about lawyers, finding a reputable resource is essential. Fortunately, there are several reliable attorney search databases, whether you're seeking a California personal injury lawyer or someone to give you corporate tax advice. Attorney databases offer insightful information, including lawyer reviews, legal specialties, and location, to name a few.

Avvo is one credible online website that provides detailed information about attorneys and legal issues. The site was developed to help consumers make better-informed decisions regarding their legal matters. Martindale Hubbell, established more than 100 years ago, is another reputable source of information on lawyers. Martindale Hubbell's peer review ratings have become the gold standard in attorney ratings.

In addition to these databases, the State Bar of California also provides trusted information that can aid your search for a Golden State lawyer. 

The State Bar of California

California state lawmakers established the State Bar of California in the late 1920s. It was created to protect the public by creating a California-based licensure system for lawyers. A lawyer can only receive a license once they have passed the bar exam. Currently, the state bar regulates nearly 200,000 licensed lawyers in the state. 

But legal licensure isn't the bar's only service to the community. The California State Bar also offers assistance to those searching for a qualified attorney. Its Certified Lawyer Referral Services Directory (LRS) has been developed to offer easy access to reliable legal references through the state bar's online directory. Consumers who need a lawyer can search by specific county or legal specialty. The website also has numerous legal guides translated into seven different languages. 

Referred attorneys have been certified by the state bar. In addition, LRS referrals will have an identifying state bar certification number visible on all advertising.

The referral service requires no obligation on your part but will provide you with several benefits. First, the LRS will determine whether your current issue is solvable without using an attorney's services. If legal assistance is needed, the service can also refer you to a licensed attorney in good standing with a specialty to match your legal issue.

Be Prepared to Interview Multiple Lawyers

Your ability to work well with an attorney is just as important as the lawyer's experience in their specialty area. One thing to consider is the response time when you contact the lawyer or the office staff. 

When meeting a new attorney, it is critical to check into the fees they charge. While most initial consultations are free, don't hesitate to ask about fees upfront. It's helpful to confirm the fee schedule before your meeting. This will help prevent mismatched expectations when moving forward. 

It may be necessary to ask how the attorney calculates their fees and the expected payment schedule. Don't be afraid to ask whether prices are negotiable or what payment plans can be arranged. 

Ask a Lawyer These Questions Before You Hire Them

Begin by asking the attorney how long they have been practicing law. Ask them to explain their legal services and previous experience with cases like yours. Always follow up with an inquiry into the outcomes of such cases. You'll also want to ask whether the lawyer has been involved in any disciplinary action. 

An experienced but overworked lawyer may not have the time you would like to devote to your case. Inquire about the lawyer's current caseload and whether they have sufficient time to dedicate to your legal matter.

Note that you have a right to ask a lawyer for references. References from current or past clients offer great insight when making this important decision. 

Conclusion

The decision to hire an attorney is a strategic and personal one. It requires conscientious research, which can be time-consuming. It is, however, a crucial step. 

Pay attention to the facts, but also trust your intuition. You need to select a lawyer who makes you feel at ease. Remember that you will be sharing private details with this individual and, ultimately, putting your future in their capable legal hands.

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