The key elements in the client attorney relationship are trust and experience.

Make absolutely sure you are comfortable with the attorney you are considering hiring and you feel you can trust them to handle your case effectively. Your attorney should specialize in the area of law that directly relates to your situation and they should have the experience and track history to produce results. You want to be sure your attorney cares enough about you to do everything possible to achieve a positive outcome. When choosing a local Appleton Attorney, be sure to visit the firms you are researching.

Be sure to do your homework.

Familiarize yourself with the applicable law in your state. Check the Law firms or attorney’s website and do other online research for client reviews. Be sure to check with legal associations such as your state’s bar association, to be sure that those attorney’s you are considering don’t have any complaints filed against them or other issues of concern. Be sure to ask friends, business colleagues, former clients (if possible) and others about using the particular lawyer you are considering

Whether hiring a local Appleton attorney or an out-of-town lawyer, make sure your attorney meets the following criteria:

- The proper qualifications and experience in the right field of law. Don’t be looking at criminal lawyers if you’re seeking a divorce.

- He/she be handling your case himself. You don’t want to be assigned to anyone else.

- He/she properly licensed in that area of law you need them.

- He/she is honest and upfront with you about your case. You should get the good and the bad and what to reasonably expect based on his/her experience

- He/she answers all your questions clearly. Your attorney should also be open to discuss their failures as well as their successes.

- He/she is well connected. Knowing the courts, judges and other attorneys in their area of law can make a big difference in the overall outcome of your case.

- He/she takes client confidentiality dead seriously and doesn’t discuss your case with anyone that isn’t involved in your case.

- He/she clearly outlines their fees and expenses. You want to be sure there aren’t any hidden charges or surprises

- Based on their experience, they tell you how long they feel your case should take, the strong and weak areas of your case and potential outcomes.

- They listen and communicate with you sincerely and genuinely.

Take the time to ask the prospective attorney some uncomfortable questions. The answers will be very telling. You will know within minutes whether or not you are meeting with a qualified attorney who is right for you.

Here are several questions we recommend those seeking an Appleton attorney to use. Use them for your attorney interviews as well:

- How many cases of this nature do you handle and what percentage of your practice involves this area?

- Will you personally oversee my case or just delegate it to an associate or legal assistant?

- When I call your office, will I speak to you or one of your staff?

- Will you be available for ongoing questions either in person or on the telephone?

- How many years have you been practicing this area of law and what is your success rate?

- Can you provide any names of satisfied clients?

- Do you have malpractice insurance?

- Do you take ongoing legal education training in the particular area?

- Are you a member of any local, state or national organizations that relate to the particular area? Which ones?

- What is your reputation like among your peers?

- Can your provide any references?

- Do you have any published works on the subject or have you prepared any helpful educational material on the subject that I can review?

Final Note: Don’t Choose an Attorney Solely On Price

People sometimes choose an attorney solely on price. Don't make that mistake. It should be one of many factors, but never the only factor. A quality attorney can often wind up saving a client a substantial amount of money by knowing how to properly handle your case. Saving a little money in the initial hiring process can sometimes lead to bigger losses in the long run. The old adage that you get what you pay for is often true. A higher priced attorney with a lot of experience and a solid track record is well worth the investment

DO beware of lawyers who advertise low introductory fees and then add on for additional services that other lawyers may include in their flat fee agreements. You also shouldn’t hire an attorney that is charging outrageous fees. The most expensive attorney is not necessarily the best. Concentrate on getting quality representation that leads to positive results. A good attorney will provide that benefit for a reasonable fee and include a written contract describing their services in an understandable contract.

If you have legal questions or would like to speak to an experienced Appleton attorney, feel free to call Brabazon Law Office for a free consultation at 920-494-1100