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#define.stb Definitions of legal terms- On line glossary
Tutorial on finding an attorney

     Attorneys specialize. Even an attorney in a very small 
community will specialize even though he handles whatever may 
come his way--- he specializes in understanding the local 
community.

     If you understand what area of law you require an attorney 
for then you can find one, or at least leads to one, by looking 
in "law lists." The grand daddy of law lists is Campbells, which 
you can find in libraries and in military bases and often with 
local merchants, throughout the United States. Campbells lists 
general practice and collections lawyers throughout the country 
and in many foreign countries. A Campbells attorney will engage 
in litigation (a specialization) and will also  be able to handle 
routine matters in his area. 

     There are directories or law lists for virtually every 
specialization. The most famous is Martindale Hubbell. Martindale 
Hubbell lists attorneys who agree to buy an ad (note that there 
is not really a quality check on the ads) and unlike most law 
lists, Martindale also rates some attorneys, from "a" to "c," 
with "a" being the best. As Martindale itself says, an unrated 
attorney may simply not have requested one, or, Campbell's hasn't 
gotten around to them yet. These ratings are in many cases 
"political." Often large firms get "a" ratings simply because of 
their political influence, so don't take them literally or as 
gospel truth. However, Martindale-Hubbell does list the areas 
that an attorney wishes to advertise as areas of interest. Many 
firms also list their representative clients, and this may be of 
interest to you to see if you would potentially subject to a 
conflict, or if the firm is traveling in the right circles for 
you. If you need an exotic speciality like hospital construction 
litigation, then looking in the nearest large city will help you 
find someone who indicates that this is a speciality of theirs.

     The best way to find an attorney is to ask others who have 
had similar problems. Or, if you own a flower store, ask your 
friends (competitors) who they use and if they understand your 
business. Attorneys will frequently specialize in an area of 
business or two, rather than in topics. For examples, many firms 
represent companies for example, in the textile industry. Since 
they have this experience, they should know what the common 
pitfalls are in the trade, and will be in a position to give you 
excellent service.

     On the other hand, the best known specialist in exactly what 
you need will do you no good if you don't like the attorney. 
Believe it or not, personality clashes do happen between lawyers 
and their clients and thus finding someone with whom you are 
comfortable is very important.

     For some reason, people will go to ten dealers to buy a car 
but will not shop for an attorney. Relevant questions should be 
asked before you sign up with anyone:
1. What is your fee, and how to do charge it?
(You should always get a written disclosure)

2. What is your experience with the same type of matter as I have 
presented to you?

3. Can I have references?

Many attorneys will not reveal their other clients names or allow 
them to be used as references, but in this case, get references to 
other attorneys who know of their expertise.  

4. Are there any Judges or Courts where you do not feel that you 
can get a good shake. (That is, do you have personality clashes 
with any Judges)?

That is a very fair question that is more important than you 
think. For example, just like human beings sometimes clash, 
attorneys who are perfectly good often just don't get along with 
a Judge. If that's going to be the Judge on your case-- watch 
out. (Of course, many towns have Judges that NO ONE gets along 
with). 

     If you are completely unsure on what kind of lawyer that you 
need, then see if you area has a lawyer referral service. These 
services, often set up in cooperation with bar associations will 
provide an initial consultation for a very low charge, below that 
of the regular charge for an office visit. That's a good place to 
start if you don't have any idea what kind of lawyer you might 
need. 

     When you visit an attorney be sure to write down your 
questions before hand. Many people become extremely nervous when 
they go in to see a professional, and will forget to ask the most 
important things. Write it down so you can get your questions 
answered. Also bring any and all papers that relate to the matter 
with you. Good luck.