Prior to making the determination as to who would best serve your legal needs, you should decide if an attorney is appropriate. What you learn from lawyer might help you come to a conclusion. But, certain situations self-representation is having a 'fool for a client'. A medical malpractice situation is one example. Counter that with a situation that could have self-representation such as a claim for $1000 which might be handled through a court for small claims. Whether to hire a lawyer or not for your situation, in the final analysis, is one that you must make with as much knowledge as to the ramifications as possible. Searching for lawyer might or might not help but there are links here that may, as well.

So, you have decided that you need an attorney as it may relate to your search for lawyer. OK, now you need to find the right lawyer or law firm. A good place to start to find such a legal firm could be through referrals. You might have a community association that makes legal referrals, or the bar association. Don't forget that friends, relatives or co-workers may know of a firm, if you feel comfortable sharing the situation with them. Once you have some referrals ask yourself: (1) How often do you handle similar cases to mine; (2) What is your winning percentage; (3) Will the attorney you are interviewing be handling the case themselves or to whom will it be referred; and, (4) How will the attorney's fees be handled. Be sure to write down your story as it relates to lawyer, or other pertinent topic, prior to your meeting so that you can be efficient in the meeting and cover all important points and bring related documentation. Answer all of the attorney's questions honestly and fully without exaggeration.

The reality is that the total cost to move forward in a legal proceeding can be a determining factor and may be a factor in your deciding what attorney you hire to represent you. There are two parts to your total legal costs: (1) the fee your attorney's firm will charge; and (2) out-of-pocket costs. Attorney's fees are charged in a number of different ways and vary considerably. These include: (a) The contingency fee based on a per cent of winnings; (b) The flat fee for the case; and (3) The fee based on an hourly charge for services. If you have a choice, these total costs may factor into your decision as to whether you want to move forward with legal action regarding lawyer or any other legal matter. Sometimes you have a choice on whether to move ahead and sometimes circumstances mandate legal representation. Options or not, but, whatever your situation, be thoughtful and investigate prior to making any decision on how to proceed.