If you’re looking for a lawyer, it’s important to be aware of the red flags that could indicate a bad fit. Check out this list before making your decision.
If you’ve never needed to hire a lawyer before, the process can certainly be overwhelming. Chances are you don’t know where to look, and let’s be honest, there are a lot of options out there!
Thankfully, it doesn’t have to be such a daunting experience. You just need to know where to get started, and that begins by knowing what to avoid.
Below, we are going to discuss eight different red flags that you should watch out for when picking a lawyer.
Lack of reviews
Reviews are one of the best ways to choose a lawyer. You get to read about others’ experiences and learn all about the pros and cons. The better the reviews, the more professional a firm will be.
Take a look at Lamber Goodnow as an example. They have over 440 5-star reviews and a 99% success rate. If your chosen lawyer doesn’t have any ratings (or worse, bad ones), you’re better off staying clear.
No free consultations
Most reputable lawyers offer a free consultation. If the lawyer you’re looking at doesn’t, that should be a major red flag. It could be a sign that they aren’t confident in their ability to win your case or, even worse, that they are trying to hide something.
This is your chance to get to know the attorney better, so make sure you take advantage of it!
Lack of experience
Experience is an important factor when choosing a lawyer. Before making your final decision, make sure you know how long the lawyer has been practicing and what kinds of cases they have worked on previously.
A good rule of thumb is to choose someone who has experience with cases similar to yours. This will ensure that they have the expertise to handle your case and get you the best possible
Vagueness
A good, honest lawyer will always give you details about their procedures and billing methods. If you ask questions and they respond with vague answers, they probably don’t want you to know something.
Make sure that you ask for a breakdown of expenses and the estimated time frame. It’s best to understand exactly what you will be getting into before making your final decision.
No specialization
If the lawyer you’re looking at doesn’t specialize in your particular case, it might be a good idea to look elsewhere. Lawyers who have experience in specific areas of law will provide much better service than those who don’t.
For example, if you are seeking legal help with a personal injury claim, make sure that the attorney you choose specializes in that area of law. Otherwise, they might not be able to provide the best possible solution.
Delays in communication
You should be able to contact your lawyer every time you have a question. Of course, you must abide by working hours and consider that they may be busy occasionally. However, they shouldn’t leave you hanging for days on end.
Signs of delay, both in communication and deadlines, are a major red flag. No matter what type of case you are dealing with, you want to be prioritized. If your lawyer doesn’t answer your calls or emails quickly and adequately, this could be an indication that they won’t put much effort into representing you either.
Misleading information
Worse than being vague is when a lawyer starts to be untruthful. Even a simple lie, like saying they tried to make contact for (but didn’t), can still be harmful to your case. The minute you notice something is up, it’s best to start looking for someone else. They are expecting you to be honest, so it’s fair to expect the same.
Watch out for subtle signs that the lawyer might be bending the truth or leaving some important information out. A lack of transparency is a huge red flag. You should never feel like you can’t trust your lawyer. If you do, it’s time to find someone else.
Rude and abrasive personality
Have you ever been served at a coffee shop and noticed the cashier was a bit rude? Perhaps you’ve had a doctor make you feel a bit unwelcome?
Well, the same thing can happen with lawyers. They all have different personalities, and you’ll want to find someone who complements your own. You may prefer a more quiet and introverted individual. On the other hand, you may like someone with high energy. Both are fine, but you should stay away from anyone who is being abrasive.
A lawyer who is inconsiderate, rude and abrasive should be a major red flag. You want someone who is professional, warm and willing to listen to your needs. If they seem like they don’t want to work with you on your case, then it’s time to look elsewhere.
In Conclusion
The process of finding a lawyer doesn’t have to be overwhelming if you know what to look for. Keep in mind the eight red flags we discussed above, and you will be well on your way to making an informed decision that is best for your situation. Don’t rush into anything; take your time and make sure that you are comfortable with every step along the way. Good luck!
