Legal Intelligence
Hiring The Law Firm That Is Right For You
By Blanca Greenstein, Esq. & Nadia Hoosien,Esq. with Greenstein & Associates
While it may appear that every attorney and law firm is equipped equally for the same job, there are many factors and dynamics to consider when choosing an attorney and law firm that is right for you. Although you cannot plan for every legal issue or every bump in the road, it is critical that you understand what to consider in choosing the right law firm, and even more importantly, to know what questions to ask in your first consultation. In hiring a law firm you are building a new relationship and placing your trust in their hands. Therefore, it is important for you to become familiar with the law firm’s culture, their practice areas, their knowledge, and expertise. This article will highlight some of the central points to consider when hiring the law firm that is right for you.
1. Beginning Your Initial Research
With the abundance of law firms to choose from, there are several ways to start your initial research. The most effective way to start your search would be by asking your family, friends and neighbors about their personal experiences with law firms. Question both the positive and negative experiences they may have encountered, and whether or not they would recommend the law firm to their loved ones. A second avenue to consider is browsing the Internet and local phonebook, as well as taking into account media or advertising you may have seen. And thirdly, consider law firms that are in your local vicinity that are convenient and accessible to you.
2. Narrowing Down Your Law Firm Choices
A law firm’s website can provide you with important information, such as: the area of law they practice; familiarity and experience the firm has; resources available to the firm; as well as providing you with a first impression. Additionally, take into account whether the law firm has had any reviews or ratings, and always consider resources such the Florida Bar (www.floridabar.org) and the American Bar Association (www.americanbaro.org).
3. The Initial Contact
When you are ready to make the initial contact with a law firm, you generally are able to make contact either through e-mail or by telephone. Consider whether the law firm has both options available to you, and whether they are willing to take the time to speak with you. The initial contact with the law firm can often foretell what your future correspondences with them will be like. Ask yourself: is there a real person on the other end; is the secretary respectful and courteous; and most importantly, do you feel like a priority? Building a relationship with a law firm requires your trust; therefore it is important that at the outset you feel respected and valued.
4. The First Meeting
Now that you have scheduled your first meeting, it is important that you come prepared. Make sure to bring all your documents and any related information with you. Prepare questions ahead of time, and be sure to write down any concerns you may have. Consider what you would like to have accomplished, and the outcome you anticipate. Preparation is essential, as it helps both the law firm and you come to a realistic and acceptable arrangement. Some essential questions would be: Who will be my initial contact; who will I be working with; what are my fees and payment options; what can I expect if the process takes longer than anticipated; and how often the firm will be communicating with you throughout the process.
5. Hiring The Law Firm
It is common that law firms will conclude the meeting with a contract. At this point reflect on how thorough, responsive, and respectful the attorney and firm has treated you. If you follow the above steps, your instinct and impressions should now serve as your final decision maker. Hiring the right law firm can be the most crucial determination when it comes to resolving your legal problems. Do your homework, trust yourself, and remember that you are building a new relationship.
Blanca Greenstein is the Managing Partner of The Law Firm of Greenstein and Associates. She has been practicing law for 19 years. Ms. Greenstein focuses her practice in the areas of business law and financial services litigation. She has represented numerous financial institutions in various proceedings, including foreclosure and bankruptcy, including Fortune 500 companies. Prior to the opening of her own firm, Ms. Greenstein was a Managing Shareholder with the law firm of Morris, Laing, Evans, Brock & Kennedy, Chtd. for five years. Prior to her partnership, she also served as Senior Litigation Counsel for a prominent loan servicer thereby providing her unique experience with regard to national litigation and settlement management. She is skilled in litigation process design and process management for corporations and has been practicing law since 1995. The firm has 3 offices located in Wellington, West Palm Beach and Lake Worth. She is also on the Board of Directors of the Wellington Chamber of Commerce in addition to being the Chairperson of the Small Business Committee of the Wellington Chamber of Commerce.