How to Find a Good Attorney

  1. Ask for References: The best way to find a good attorney is by asking for a reference from someone you know. Friends and family can provide referrals to attorneys with whom they’ve had positive experiences. Other attorneys, who may not practice in the specific area you need help with, are also great sources for recommendations. If these options don’t yield results, check the attorney’s website and read reviews from earlier clients. This can provide valuable insight into their style, personality, client satisfaction, and effectiveness.

  2. Check Their Disciplinary History: Several online resources let you locate disciplinary records for attorneys. For example, the Louisiana Attorney Disciplinary Board website provides access to attorney disciplinary records. The Louisiana Supreme Court is responsible for imposing penalties for attorney misconduct, and all related opinions are public record. An online search usually uncovers these opinions, which you can review to make a more informed decision. While not all attorneys who have faced disciplinary actions are “bad” attorneys, it’s useful for potential clients to have this information upfront to assess the severity of any misconduct.

  3. Have a Consultation: Most attorneys require an initial consultation, which serves an important purpose. This brief meeting allows both the potential client and the attorney to discuss the details and determine if they are a good fit based on various factors.

  4. Evaluate the Consultation’s Effectiveness: Be sure to clearly understand the expectations of both sides before signing a representation agreement. Recognize that legal outcomes can be uncertain, and guarantees are rare in litigation. However, you should feel reasonably comfortable moving forward. During the consultation, assess whether the attorney’s communication style suits your needs. Pay close attention; if the meeting feels like a sales pitch, the attorney may be more focused on selling you a service than addressing your needs. If you feel uneasy about the consultation or the services suggested, consider getting a second opinion before making your decision.
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