Since a client attorney relationship is based on trust you would need to only appoint an attorney you are comfortable with and are not intimidated by. Another important consideration is what you need an attorney for. Law is a specialized field and you will need to look for an attorney who practices in the area you need help with.
Before just selecting an attorney at random it would be advisable to familiarize yourself with the way law works. Many states have websites to guide people. Check out everything before you hire a lawyer.
Set yourself a goal to locate a lawyer who you like and trust. One you can confide in and one who will care about what happens to you. A lawyer is in many ways your conscience so choose with care. Think about using a reputed lawyer referral service like this one set up by the Massachusetts Bar Association. http://www.massbar.org/lawhelp/need_lawyer/index.php'sw=539&PHPSESSID=a2735a0409a62282c3588fb94561fa9b .
The 10 most critical things a lawyer must toe the line for are:
1.He must have the proper qualifications and have extensive experience in the field of law you need him for. You cannot choose a criminal lawyer to handle say a divorce case.
2.He must agree to handle your case himself and not assign you to a colleague or assistant.
3.He must be licensed to work in the area and state or country you need him.
4.He must be honest and upfront with you about the case. If he thinks you have no chance of winning he must say so.
5.He must answer your questions clearly and tell you about not just his successes but failures too.
6.He must be well connected in your area other wise the case will be a damp squib.
7.He must not be loose lipped and discuss salient features of your case at social gatherings.
8.He must lay the cards on the table regarding fees and there should be no hidden charges.
9.His experience should enable him to tell you how long he thinks your case will take and what the strong and weak points of your case are.
10.He must make an effort to listen to you carefully, make notes, read your file thoroughly and not just set the file aside, smile at you and shake your hand within minutes to indicate the meeting is over.
What is most essential for you when you step out to hire a lawyer is to do your homework. Ask friends, business colleagues, and others who have ever used a lawyer. Learn how to sift through the chaff and find a lawyer that will suit you most. Do not hire one that charges the lowest fees. Find one that is well qualified, dedicated, and affordable.
