If you need to hire a solicitor, you are probably wondering where to start. You may also be wondering what you should look for when you begin to consider having a particular solicitor work for you. It is a very important decision, so there are a few things you’ll need to keep in mind when you are searching for someone to represent your interests.
Ask around: word of mouth counts for a lot
If you want to gather suggestions about effective solicitors, one of the best ways is to get the opinions of satisfied clients through word of mouth. Former clients are extremely likely to be objective about the performance of a solicitor. They can communicate the positive strengths and the weaknesses of hiring a particular person. If you know someone you trust that has recently used the services of a solicitor, word of mouth referrals can help to point you in the direction.
Use the local bar association
All solicitors must pass and be registered with their local bar association. A good place to start with your search would be to contact your local bar association and ask to see a list of all accredited solicitors in your area. You can contact and arrange consultations with law firms based on this list.
Use free consultations
Many law firms allow you to have a thirty minute free consult with a solicitor that you are considering hiring for your case. It is definitely highly recommended that you take advantage of this to meet the solicitor, talk with them, and get a sense of their ability and willingness to help you with your case.
Ask questions about their work experience
The best predictor of a solicitor’s success with your case is their record of success with past cases that are similar to yours. Solicitors expect that you will ask questions—and you should—about how many cases they have handled and won. Trust you gut on this one: do they seem open and upfront about the result of their cases?
Personality fit
When you are attempting to find and hire a solicitor, you should also take into account personality fit. If you go to a consultation and there are signs that there will be serious personality clashes with your solicitor, you should keep looking—or ask to meet with a different solicitor within the company. They will be representing you, so you need to know that you would be able to work with them without conflict. If you ask yourself whether or not you like the solicitor and the answer is an unequivocal no, it is not wise to hire this person.
Does this solicitor communicate well?
If this solicitor is supposed to be representing you, then he or she needs to have superior communication skills. You should feel confident that the solicitor you hire is eloquent, speaks with authority, and can concisely present information in an understandable way. Make sure you hire a solicitor with great interpersonal and communication skills.
Small law firm vs. large law firm
The question of whether you should go with a large or small law firm can depend on many factors. Large law firms generally have a lot of financial resources and support staff, such as administrative assistants and paralegals, to ensure that you are adequately taken care of. Small law firms may offer the attraction of solicitors who form very personalized service with their clients and have lower billing rates. It definitely depends on your priorities as a client.
Is the solicitor flexible in payment options?
Many solicitors may be open to negotiating the method of payment with their prospective clients. Some could charge a flat rate retainer, some may request to bill hourly, while others could prefer to bill their clients by the tasks that they complete for them. It is important to work out a billing arrangement that is comfortable for both the solicitor and client, and it is the responsibility of the solicitor to fully explain the billing process. Clients should understand the process, or ask questions until they do.
Hiring a solicitor is a business decision and should be treated as such. You should consider their work experience, personality fit, willingness to work with you, and flexibility of billing options when considering a solicitor. If you follow the tips above, you are sure to find an excellent solicitor.
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