Legal problems are stressful, and choosing a lawyer quickly can feel urgent. A few checks help you find someone qualified for your specific issue, and avoid surprises about cost.
1. Match the lawyer to the problem
Law is specialized. A lawyer who handles real estate closings is not necessarily the right choice for a criminal charge, a divorce or an injury claim. Look for someone whose practice focuses on your type of matter and, ideally, on your local courts.
2. Use a lawyer referral service
Many state and local bar associations run lawyer referral services that match you with a vetted attorney in the right practice area, often for a low-cost initial consultation. The American Bar Association maintains a directory of these services on its website.
3. Verify license and discipline with the state bar
Lawyers must be licensed in the state where they practice (with limited exceptions such as some federal matters). Every state bar or attorney licensing agency provides a public lookup that shows whether a lawyer is admitted and in good standing, and many also show public discipline. Search by the lawyer's full name and confirm the status is active.
4. Understand the fee structure
| Arrangement | How it works | Common for |
|---|---|---|
| Hourly | Billed in increments for time spent; often requires a retainer deposit | Litigation, business matters, family law |
| Flat fee | One price for a defined task | Wills, simple filings, some criminal matters |
| Contingency | Lawyer receives a percentage of any recovery; typically nothing if you lose | Personal injury, some employment claims |
| Limited scope | Help with part of a matter while you handle the rest | Document review, coaching for self-represented people |
With contingency fees, ask whether the percentage is calculated before or after case costs are deducted, and who pays costs if the case is lost.
5. Prepare for the consultation
- Bring a short written timeline and copies of key documents.
- Ask how many similar matters they have handled and what outcomes are realistic.
- Ask who will actually work on your case and how quickly they respond to messages.
- Ask for an estimate of total costs and how you will be billed.
6. Get an engagement letter
A written engagement letter or fee agreement should set out the scope of the representation, the fee arrangement, how costs are handled and how either side can end the relationship. Some states require written fee agreements for certain arrangements, such as contingency fees.
If you cannot afford a lawyer
- Legal aid: the Legal Services Corporation funds nonprofit legal aid organizations across the US; its website has a "find legal aid" tool for civil matters for people with low incomes.
- Public defenders: if you are charged with a crime that could lead to jail time and cannot afford a lawyer, you have the right to ask the court to appoint one.
- Law school clinics and court self-help centers can also provide assistance.
Frequently asked questions
How do I check if a lawyer is licensed?
Use the attorney search on your state bar or attorney licensing agency's website to confirm the lawyer is admitted, active and in good standing, and to see any public discipline.
What is a contingency fee?
The lawyer is paid a percentage of any money recovered, and typically receives no fee if there is no recovery. Ask how case costs are handled.
Where can I get free legal help?
The Legal Services Corporation's website can help you find nonprofit legal aid for civil matters if you have a low income. Bar referral services often offer low-cost consultations.
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