Well, here I am, back on one of my favorite subjects, "how to choose a lawyer."  I guess that the reason that I like to write about this subject is that it is the one that I get asked about most frequently.   


In choosing a lawyer, as in many other aspects of life, it's all about balance. 

You want a lawyer that has a good personality, and one that you enjoy working with or talking to, but one who can represent you aggressively when the situation calls for it.  (You want "Nice" but not "Wimpy".)

 

You want someone who is not afraid to stand up for you, and insist on your rights. But you don't want someone that will argue just for the sake of argument   ("Strong", not "Belligerent".)

 

You want an attorney and staff who are open to your ideas, but able to stand up to you and give you an honest opinion and clear direction. ("Open minded", not "Wishy-washy".)  

 

You want someone who will be responsive to you and will keep you up-to-date. But you don't want someone who will put everything aside every time any client wants to talk.  ("Responsive", not "Easily Distracted".)

 

And, while you want someone who you can afford, price shouldn't be the only criteria.  Look for a reasonable price that falls within the range of what is charged in your geographical area for that type of case, by attorneys with the particular level of experience.  An attorney who refuses to cut the price or service when it will negatively affect your case is actually doing you a favor.