What kind of questions do I ask to qualify a lawyer? -

I d like to start shopping around for a good family lawyer but don t know where to start. Obviously, money is an issue, but not to the point where I can t afford to go to court. I m looking to see what kind of questions I should ask the firms to see if they d be a good fit for me and my case. Any suggestions?

One of the first questions is to make sure that the lawyer practices in the field that you need you need help him, there are criminal and civil attorneys, and the civil attorneys break down into specialties. You can ask them how long they have been handling these cases, how long the individual has been practicing law, finding out a ballpark figure of what it will cost to complete you case, and what your chances are of winning your case if you have to go to court. Most lawyers charge, one fee for office work, and another for court, including, copies, telephone charges, etc. It is best to find all this out before hand, you can also contact the local Bar Association, and see if there have been any complaints against the attorney. Most of all do not be afraid to ask questions, my advise get a legal pad and prepare questions that you want to ask. Make sure to ask the attorney if an investigator is going to be needed and what the cost of that would entail, for surveillance, courthouse records checks, etc.

Have they handled similar cases? What is their hourly fee?