Finding the Right Lawyer

Essential questions to ask before hiring.

When it comes to legal matters, it's crucial to hire the right lawyer who can represent you effectively in court. Choosing the right lawyer can make all the difference if you're facing a criminal charge, a civil lawsuit, or any other legal issue. However, with so many lawyers, it can be difficult to know where to start. That's why we've put together this FAQ to help you ask the right questions and find the right lawyer for your needs.

What Experience Do You Have in Handling Cases Like Mine?

It's essential to hire a lawyer with experience in handling cases similar to yours. Ask the lawyer how many cases they have handled similar to yours and what the outcome was. This will give you an idea of their success rate and whether they fit your case.

What Is Your Fee Structure, and How Do You Bill Clients?

It's important to consider the fee structure of a lawyer before hiring them. Some lawyers may charge an hourly rate, which means that you will be billed for every hour they work on your case. This can quickly add up and become expensive. Other lawyers may charge a flat fee, which means that you will pay a set amount for their services, regardless of how much time they spend on your case.

A contingency fee is when the lawyer only gets paid if you win your case. They will take a percentage of the settlement or judgment as their fee. This can be a good option if you don't have the money to pay for a lawyer upfront.

When discussing fees with a lawyer, make sure you understand what you will be paying for and when payment is due. You don't want to be surprised by unexpected fees or bills. It's important to have a clear understanding of the fee structure before hiring a lawyer, so you can budget accordingly and avoid any financial surprises down the road.

What Is Your Communication Style, and How Often Will We Be in Touch?

Effective communication is the cornerstone of any successful lawyer-client relationship. You want to ensure that your lawyer is responsive to your needs and that you feel comfortable discussing any concerns or questions you may have. When interviewing potential lawyers, it's important to ask them about their communication style and how often you can expect updates on your case.

Some lawyers prefer to communicate via phone calls, while others may prefer email or in-person meetings. Make sure you understand their preferred method of communication and that it aligns with your own preferences. You don't want to hire a lawyer who is difficult to get in touch with or who doesn't provide regular updates on your case.

In addition to discussing their communication style, it's also important to ask about their availability. Will they be available to answer your questions outside of regular business hours? Will they be available to attend court hearings or meetings on short notice? These are all important factors to consider when hiring a lawyer.

Ultimately, you want to hire a lawyer who is responsive, accessible, and committed to keeping you informed throughout the legal process. By asking the right questions and finding someone who meets your needs, you can ensure that you receive the legal representation you deserve.

What Is Your Strategy for My Case, and What Are the Potential Outcomes?

When it comes to legal matters, having a clear strategy is crucial to achieving the best possible outcome. A good lawyer will be able to explain their strategy to you in detail and provide you with a realistic idea of what to expect from your case. This may include outlining the steps they plan to take, the evidence they will present, and any potential challenges they foresee.

It's important to ask the lawyer about their strategy early on in the process, so you can make an informed decision about whether they are the right fit for your needs. You want to ensure that their strategy aligns with your goals and that they have a proven track record of success in cases similar to yours.

In addition to discussing their strategy, it's also important to ask about potential outcomes. While a good lawyer will never guarantee a specific outcome, they should be able to provide you with an idea of what you can expect based on their experience and the facts of your case. This can help you make informed decisions about how to proceed and manage your expectations throughout the legal process.

Ultimately, hiring a lawyer with a clear strategy and a proven track record of success can give you the best chance of achieving a positive outcome in your legal matter. Don't be afraid to ask questions and do your research before making a decision. The right lawyer can make all the difference in your case.

What Is Your Experience with Negotiating Resolutions?

Many legal cases are settled out of court, so hiring a lawyer with experience with negotiations and settlements is important. Ask the lawyer about their experience settling cases and their success rate. This will give you an idea of their ability to negotiate a favorable resolution without going to trial. This applies even in some immigration cases, particularly deportation cases.

A skilled lawyer will take a proactive approach in communicating with opposing counsel and government attorneys to analyze the strengths and weaknesses of your case and devise a forward-thinking strategy. Effective communication between your immigration attorney and the government attorney can even lead to a mutually beneficial agreement to grant benefits without a contested hearing. This not only mitigates your risk of loss, but also minimizes the stress of the unknown.

What Is Your Experience with Going to Trial?

If your case ends up going to trial, it's crucial to have a lawyer who is well-versed in the courtroom setting. You want someone who is experienced with the procedures and rules of the courtroom environment, as well as someone who can effectively argue your case in front of a judge or jury.

When interviewing potential lawyers, make sure to ask about their experience with trials. How many trials have they handled, and what is their success rate? A lawyer who has a proven track record of success in the courtroom is more likely to be able to represent you effectively and secure a positive outcome for your case.

It's also important to ask about their courtroom strategy. How will they prepare for trial, and what tactics will they use to argue your case? A good lawyer will have a clear plan and be able to explain their strategy to you in detail.

Ultimately, hiring a lawyer with experience in the courtroom can give you peace of mind and increase your chances of success. Don't be afraid to ask questions and do your research before making a decision. The right lawyer can make all the difference in your case.

What Are the Potential Risks and Drawbacks of My Case?

Having a realistic understanding of your case's potential risks and drawbacks is important. Ask the lawyer to explain any potential issues with your case and the worst-case scenario. This will help you make an informed decision about how to proceed with your case.

What Is Your Availability, and How Soon Can You Start Working on My Case?

When interviewing potential lawyers, make sure to ask about their availability and how soon they can start working on your case. You should also have a clear timeline in mind before hiring them. This will help ensure that you're on the same page and that your lawyer can meet your needs and expectations.

It's important to remember that some lawyers may not be able to start working on your case immediately due to other commitments or their workload. However, they should be able to provide you with a timeline for when they can start working on your case and keep you updated on their progress. 

What Sets You Apart from Other Lawyers?

It's important to choose a lawyer who stands out from the rest. Don't hesitate to ask what makes them unique and why they are the right fit for your case. This will help you understand their specific strengths and abilities. If they can't provide a clear answer, it may be best to continue your search. A lawyer who lacks self-awareness can be detrimental to your case.

Get the Legal Representation You Deserve

Choosing the right lawyer can be daunting, but by asking the right questions, you can find someone who is the right fit for your needs. Make sure you take the time to research and interview potential lawyers before making a decision. Doing so can increase your chances of success in your legal matter.

Why Choose Novo Legal Group?

Novo Legal Group has earned a reputation as a trusted advocate for immigrants in the United States. With their vast experience in immigration and criminal law, they have successfully represented many clients in complex legal proceedings. They understand that every case is distinct and requires a tailored approach to achieve the best possible outcome. That's why they invest time in getting to know their clients, understanding their concerns and objectives, and developing a legal strategy that meets their specific needs.

When you choose Novo Legal, you can rest assured that you are working with a team that is passionate about achieving justice and making a positive impact in the lives of their clients. They understand the challenges and complexities of the legal system, and are committed to guiding their clients through every step of the process. Whether you are seeking an immigration benefit or defending against immigration or criminal charges, Novo Legal has the expertise and experience to help you navigate the legal system and achieve the best possible outcome.

Ready to take the next step towards resolving your immigration or criminal legal issues? Contact us today to book your consultation. Let's work together to make a positive difference in your life.