Introduction
Law attorneys are people who are educated in the law and all its intricacies. They use their talents and education to serve as legal counsel to the public. Once a law degree is achieved, a lawyer is legally capable of soliciting his services to the layperson and acting in their behalf in legally proceedings. There are six tips everyone should know about law attorneys before you hire one.
Court Officers and Conflict of Interest
Law attorneys are court officers. Once they finish law school they must pass the bar exam in the state in which they plan to practice. Upon successful completion of the bar exam they are officially sworn in as officers of the court under obligation to uphold the laws of that court. This means they must turn in anyone they know of wrongdoing. The exception to this is their own clients. Anything told to your personal lawyer must stay completely confidential unless it is the planning of a crime for the future.
Law Attorneys can have no conflict of interest. This means that a law attorney cannot provide legal services to both sides of the case. It also means that no law attorney can practice where a conflict of interest can occur. For example, if Sally sues Department Store A and then Department Store A decides to sue Department Store B, Sally’s lawyer cannot represent either store.
Education and Word of Mouth
Education and certification vary from one law attorney to another. While all practicing attorneys must have passed the bar exam and made it successfully through law school they may have widely varying areas of expertise. Make sure you hire a law attorney that specializes in your particular problem area. Compare the educational specifics of each law attorney you interview.
Use word of mouth when you are ready to hire a law attorney. Ask around to your neighbors, friends, coworkers and associates. Get their referrals for law attorneys they trust and they feel has done a good job for them. Word of mouth referrals are under rated. It is a great way to find an attorney specific to your needs.
Practices and Fees
Law attorney practice in several ways. They can have a solo practice, a small firm, a large firm or work for a government sector. Be aware of the pros and cons of each type of environment to ensure you have the right law attorney for your case. Solo practitioners and those in a small firm may have stronger specializations.
Law attorneys charge for their services in several ways. Some lawyers will charge a consultation fee. A consultation fee is a charge for the initial visit. Many offer free consultation visits. Always ask their policy on consultation fees when you make an appointment to interview the lawyer. All law attorneys are required to give you a fee sheet explaining your charges.
These six tips about law attorneys will be able to help you choose a lawyer and compare and contrast their education, fees and specialties. Being knowledgeable about law attorneys is imperative to finding one that can win your case.
