Everybody will at one point or another need an attorney. From simple tasks such as signing mortgage documents to close on a property purchase to more complex matters such as writing a will or dealing with criminal defense and accident liability, an attorney can help, recommended reading. No matter what the situation may be, it is vital to have knowledgeable and competent counsel. The problem is most people don’t need to hire an attorney as often as they should, aren’t familiar with them, or are not able to know how to find the right one for them. As with all things, the better prepared you are and the more you know. This is true for selecting an attorney. Let’s start from the beginning and go through the process.

Although it sounds simple, it is important to understand why you need an attorney. You don’t need one at all times. In fact, putting off speaking with one could make things worse. Don’t fall for any advertisements claiming that you can write your will, handle your divorce, or create your Limited Liability Company. You may be able to do so with some of these packages. However, you won’t receive the essential legal counsel that will help you to assess any legal weaknesses, protect your rights and determine whether or not those documents will hold up in court. It is true that a person acting as his own lawyer has a fool for clients.

Once you know why you need an lawyer, you can decide which type of attorney you want. Some lawyers are “general practitioners”, while others are experts in one area. You may want to hire an attorney who is skilled in handling cases involving personal injury or divorce.

Finding the right attorney will require some work from you. There are many resources available, including the Yellow Pages and websites. However, you should ask for referrals from people you know and professionals in the community. You can also consult the state bar to find a list or referrals for lawyers in your region. Do your homework, no matter how you begin your search. The more you know about your subject, the better the search results will be.