1. Ask
At an initial meeting, it may not be obvious, but it’s essential that you ask each attorney what percentage of their practice specializes in the type of legal matter for which you need representation. You might also inquire into their experience handling similar cases as yours as well as whether these usually settle or go to trial.
Lawyers tend to be straightforward when asked about their experience and may share success stories like being the first in their family to graduate college and pursue law degrees or how they managed to stay out of bankruptcy.
Before hiring the firm, it’s also advisable to inquire as to their approach to client confidentiality and their policy on expense reimbursements for copying, messenger service and court filing fees. Furthermore, you should inquire as to who will handle your case directly – whether an associate, paralegal or another member of the firm may take over handling.
3. Ask for References
All job hunters must be prepared to provide professional references when meeting with potential employers. References can come in the form of phone calls, letters or emails and play an essential part in the hiring process.
References should consist of individuals who have formal working relationships with you in either the professional or academic arenas, such as current and former supervisors/managers/coaches; professors; coaches etc. To remain impartial it’s wise not to include family members as references as their opinions may bias them negatively.
When asking for references, make sure that you allow enough time for them to respond – preferably before your application deadline. If they decline being part of your list of potential references, be courteous and move onto another option on your list. Furthermore, thanking references after they provide written or verbal recommendations will strengthen relationships and encourage them to help in future.
4. Ask in Court
Finding out who someone’s lawyer is may be possible by asking them in court; however, lawyers are bound by ethics to maintain client confidentiality and the information may remain privileged.
If you have evidence supporting your claim, present it in court either on your own or through getting a judge to issue a subpoena for it. Your local court may have forms and information available about subpoenas, such as how to pay witness and mileage fees (if applicable).
If you are representing yourself in Supreme Court, the other person or their lawyer can ask questions during cross-examination. Make sure you understand and know how you want to answer each question, before answering. If necessary, request for it to be repeated or rephrased until you do understand. Also avoid discussing your case outside the courtroom where it could be heard by judges, other parties involved, their lawyers, witnesses or judge which could constitute contempt of court proceedings.