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 past lawsuit 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. On the flip side, some matters can be handled without an attorney. An uncontested divorce is one example. When all is said and done, you are the one that must make a well informed decision if a lawyer would be the right choice. The results you get from past lawsuit might give you clues as to that decision and the results shown herein may provide additional insight.

Upon reflection, you decide that you do need a lawyer to represent your interests regarding past lawsuit. So, how do you find the right one? One way might be though some local community organization which has a legal referral service. The Internet is also an easy means to review law firms. With referrals in hand, be prepared to ask some important questions at your meeting. These include: (i) What will is cost to prosecute the case; (ii) Does the firm specialize in this area of law; (iii) Generally, how often do you win; and, (iv) Which attorney will handle the case on a day-to-day basis. Before you go to the interview, document your situation so that you can be fully explain the situation in regard to past lawsuit, or the subject at hand, in an efficient manner and bring related documentation. It is important that you answer all questions fully and honestly.

It should come as no surprise that the fee that the law firm will charge, along with expenses, is a crucial element in your decision as to what attorney. Fees should be spelled out clearly in writing prior to retaining the firm. There are two major areas of cost: (a) expenses; and (b) your attorney's fee. The attorney's fee is usually categories in one of the following: (i) Flat predetermined fee; (ii) Contingency - a % of the winnings, if any; or (iii) Sliding Fee based ability to pay (i.e. your income); or(1) Hourly rate. The client is generally responsible for out-of-pocket costs. Weigh all of this in determining if you want legal representation and, whom before you enter into litigation regarding past lawsuit or any other legal matter. You may, or may not have a choice in the matter as to proceeding or not. Options or not, but, whatever your situation, be thoughtful and investigate prior to making any decision on how to proceed.