Facing legal matters is difficult if you shoulder it all alone. That’s why hiring an experienced and reputable lawyer is important in order for you to know the right steps you need to take and make the best legal decision. 

So, how do you know if you’re talking to the right lawyer?  Most lawyers offer free initial legal consultation, and you can take advantage of this great opportunity to ask relevant questions when looking for one.

In this post, you’ll learn the important questions to ask before hiring a lawyer. 

Questions To Assess The Lawyer’s Background

It is important to consider asking questions that assess the background of a lawyer. By doing so, you’ll have a higher chance of getting the best legal representative at your side, such as one from Sioux Falls law firm Alvine Weidenaar, which is owned and run by top-notch lawyers who are willing to help you fight for your rights and determine the best legal options for your case. 

Here are some examples of questions to help you assess the background of a lawyer:

• Where did you study law?: A lawyer who studied from one of the most reputable law schools instantly puts you at an advantage.
• How long have you been in this practice?: It’s crucial to know how long the lawyer has been practicing their profession. Of course, you want someone who has enough experience–ideally, at least five years–to ensure that your case will be handled expertly.

Questions To Assess The Lawyer’s Legal Expertise 

Whatever type of legal case you’re facing right now, it’s important to consider hiring a lawyer who is familiar with your case. 

Here are some examples of questions to help assess the lawyer’s legal expertise:

• How many cases have you handled that are similar to my case?: Lawyers have different specialties. There are those who are specialized in handling personal injury claims, while others are experienced in handling criminal, employment, or business or corporate legal cases. Settle with someone who has handled similar cases like yours.
• Where have you practiced in the past?: Because each state has different laws, it’s important to consider asking your prospective lawyer about their previous practice areas. This way, you can assess the familiarity of the lawyer to your state laws.
• What is the possible outcome of my case?: While lawyers cannot really tell exactly whether or not you will win without looking at the evidence yet, a good lawyer can provide you clear details as to the possible outcomes of your case. Also, they should be able to provide and explain these things to you using simple terms that you can easily understand.
• What is the best course of legal action in this case?: Knowing the possible legal options is important, and a good lawyer can help you choose the best one for your case.

Questions To Determine The Lawyer’s Soft Skills

The soft skills of a lawyer make a big difference in the final outcome of your case. Soft skills include a lawyer’s communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills, as well as their genuine concern to clients.   

Here are some examples of questions to help assess the lawyer’s soft skills:

• If you’re representing the other party, what legal actions will you be taking?: Asking this question will give you a better idea on how a lawyer would attack an unexpected or a rare question, thus helping you assess their communication and problem-solving skills. 
• If you were in my position, would you go through this same route?: Seeking the opinion of the lawyer will enable you to assess their genuine concern and passion for their craft. 

Questions To Assess The Lawyer’s Case Management Skills

Different lawyers or law firms have varying ways of handling clients. That’s why you have to ask questions that would provide answers as to how your prospective lawyer will be handling your case.

Here are some examples of questions to help assess the lawyer’s case management skills: 

• How long will it take to settle my case?: A good lawyer will discuss the best strategy that would resolve your case as soon as possible, and can give you an estimated time frame of how much time it will take to get your case settled. Because lawyers cannot control the pace of the legal process, you can’t expect a lawyer to make a promise about  this aspect.
• Who will be handling the work?: Lawyers will always be a part of a law firm. It means that your case can be handled by paralegals and junior associates, so make sure to know from the very start who will be handling your case. 

Conclusion

Choosing the best person to represent you in a legal case is a major decision you have to make. Regardless if you’re dealing with a criminal case, DUI, medical malpractice, or a car accident claim, you can ask the questions mentioned above in terms of case management, soft skills, background, and expertise, before you hire a lawyer for your case.