It can be a little like searching for a needle amongst a pile of hay to find the best attorney on the internet, can’t you? Imagine a sea of attorney profiles and websites that all promise you the world. How can you make sense of this digital maelstrom without going crazy or losing money? Check this out
Consider what you really need. Imagine you are buying shoes. Right? You would not grab the very first pair of shoes that caught your attention. It’s important to find something comfortable, that feels great, and worth the money you spent. It’s a bit like looking for a lawyer. You may need someone with experience in family law or you might be dealing with an awkward business issue. Whatever the case, having an idea in mind will help you narrow down your choices.
The internet is a friend that you can have, but only until it’s no longer. Each lawyer has glowing reviews. Bob’s neighbor found the perfect lawyer after reading online reviews. It worked well for Bob! Here’s the thing: every situation is different. It’s possible that what worked for Bob won’t work for you. You can learn more about online reviews by digging deeper than the glossy ratings and stars. Look at the stories that others have told, and pay attention to the details. They can often tell you more than what to expect.
Murphy’s Law states that “Everything can and will go wrong.” It may sound pessimistic but this brings us back to diligence. Look for an attorney that listens and speaks as if you are the only case on his or her plate. This kind of conversation can save you headaches in the future. Ask direct questions. Assess their ability to respond and explain technical terms in simple language. You’re talking to a good friend and not an impersonal stiff-shirt.
Navigating the legal directory maze is part of moving into the digital world. Imagine an updated version of the old phone book–platforms such as Avvo FindLaw and Justia. These platforms are bursting at the seams with listings of local attorneys, offering a breadcrumb path to find someone. They also provide education resources. It’s never a bad idea to learn something new. Don’t be afraid to try them out, but remember to occasionally step outside of your bubble. Referrals from friends and family are still a powerful tool in decision making. You can learn a lot from a friend’s advice.
Let’s also not forget that a flashy website does not always translate to an excellent lawyer. How do fancy graphics and logos translate to your lawyer’s abilities? You need substance, not style. Look for client testimonials and read any published articles or case studies. These tidbits will tell you whether they are as good as the digital representation.
What’s the cherry on top of it all? Online consultations can be a great way to relax. These consultations are often low cost or free and give you a good idea of how well your lawyer and yourself get along. First impressions are important. Treat the meeting like you would a date. This is a great time to gauge their level of understanding and empathy. You will be trusting your loved ones with important details about your life.
You’ve probably heard of the story about the tortoise versus the hare. It turns out that taking your time in cyberspace pays off. It’s hard to keep up, but if you do it right, patience can lead to an amazing connection.
Finding the best local lawyer online can be like wading in the digital mud with a stick. But with some sleuthing, and a little conversational probing you will find that legal needle hidden within the haystack. Who knows? Who knows?