Many people get very anxious about hiring an Austin attorney. They don’t want to hire someone who will overcharge them for their services and fail to deliver. That is why it’s important to schedule a free consultation with an attorney. Use this time to ask pertinent questions to learn about how the lawyer will handle your case and what you can expect by hiring that particular person or firm. During the consultation, ask the following questions to get yourself started:
1. What Is Your Experience?
It’s important to learn about the attorney’s experience. Some of the things that you might want to ask include:
- How long have you been practicing law?
- How many similar cases have you handled?
- What is your track record going to court with similar cases?
Make sure to hire someone who has experience in the type of law that you need, such as criminal law, divorce law, or estate planning.
2. Have You Completed Specialized Training?
Depending on your case, there may be specialized training that is important for your lawyer to have. For example, a criminal defense attorney may need specialized training to understand various criminal offenses. Drug-related charges will need to be handled differently from aggravated assault or a DWI case. Make sure that the attorney has completed the necessary training to give you the information and assistance that you need.
3. How Are Rates Calculated?
One of the biggest questions weighing on your mind is probably rates. Find out how the charges are calculated. Some attorneys will take a percentage of your winnings. Some will charge you by the hour. Other attorneys will charge a flat fee. For the most part, it depends on the type of case. Make sure to speak to several attorneys so you can compare rates and determine what is fair.
4. How Will You Communicate with Me?
Throughout the case, you’ll need to communicate with your attorney on a regular basis. You’re going to have questions that need to be answered, or you’ll have documents that you need to have explained. Make sure that you know how often your attorney will communicate with you and what the best way to get in touch with him or her will be.
5. What Is Your Approach?
Find out what the attorney’s approach is with similar cases. This is most important in cases like divorce. Some attorneys will want to negotiate outside of court, while others will be ready to take anything and everything that they can get. Make sure that you find someone whose approach aligns with what you’re looking for. If you want someone who is more aggressive, make sure to find someone who will offer that to you.
6. What Outcome Should I Expect?
Offer some details about the case. Based on the information provided, ask the attorney about what you can expect. You want someone who will be open and honest with you, but you need to find someone who won’t be afraid to fight for you and get the best results possible.
These questions will help you determine if an attorney is right for you. But first, contact the Lawyer Referral Service of Central Texas and we’ll put you in touch with an attorney that you can schedule an initial consultation with as soon as possible.
