If the time has come for litigation, the first thing you’ll want to do is hire a good attorney. Litigation attorneys in Chicago are easy to find, but choosing the right one for your specific case takes a little homework.
Finding Litigation Attorneys In Chicago: Start With Concentration
To cut down on the amount of time you spend researching and interviewing attorneys, start your search for litigation attorneys in Chicago by seeking out only those who concentrate in your specific type of case. For example, if you’ve been wrongly terminated, you need to find an attorney who specializes in employment law as opposed to real estate law. Once you’ve determined what general area of expertise you need, you can begin a more effective search.
Thanks to the internet, a quick online search will pull up hundreds of results for you. You can begin your search by visiting several websites and gleaning what information you can from them or you can start your search with the state bar association. The Illinois State Bar Association allows you to search for litigation attorneys in Chicago. An added benefit of starting with the bar association is knowing that the attorneys who are listed have met the requirements that were set forth by this professional association. This means the attorneys who are listed are licensed to practice law, have professional liability insurance and are in good standing with the Attorney Regulation and Disciplinary Commission.
Membership in professional associations is also a good indicator of the quality of lawyer you’re researching. In general, attorneys who are active in professional associations are expected to adhere to the highest ethical and professional standards.
Take Your Time
It’s never a good idea to rush decisions. This is definitely true when you are hiring someone to represent you in a legal situation. That said, take some time to research the firms and attorneys on your short list. Just because your cousin had a good experience with a lawyer doesn’t mean the same lawyer will be the right fit for you. Ultimately the attorney you choose must be someone you feel comfortable with. Litigation attorneys in Chicago will have access to many private details of your life. You don’t want to share that information with a lawyer you don’t trust. Many firms offer free or low-cost consultations. Take advantage of these and meet with several litigation attorneys in Chicago until you find the right one for you.
Research the firm or attorney ahead of time. You should be able to gain a lot of information from the firm’s website, and find out if the attorney has any special experience in your types of cases or maintains membership in professional associations. You may find online reviews and recommendations on the attorney that you can use to aid your decision-making.
Nearly as important as the lawyer’s qualifications are his manners and treatment of you and your situation. During your consultation, try to gauge the attorney’s level of interest in your case. Is she interested in it or dismissive? Does he speak to you in terms you understand and treat you with respect? All of these are important considerations when hiring litigation attorneys in Chicago. Remember, not only will you be working with this attorney, he or she will need to present your case in front of a judge and jury. You want them to understand and trust your lawyer as much as you do.
For help in areas of litigation, contact Peck Ritchey at (312) 201-0900. Our litigation attorneys in Chicago will be happy to discuss your case and advise you of your options.