Find an employment attorney that has the experience to take your case to trial. A knowledgeable attorney will be able to explain how your case will progress and how long it might take.
Ask friends, family members and colleagues if they have used an employment lawyer. Also, look at the firms’ websites for detailed information about their attorneys and practice areas.
1. Look for Experience
A skilled employment lawyer will know how to handle unforeseen complications that often arise in employment cases. These unforeseen issues are not taught in law school and require the experience that comes with years of practice.
A good way to find an employment lawyer is through referrals from friends and family. You can also visit lawyers’ websites to see how much of their practice is devoted to employment law and whether they have handled cases similar to yours.
You can also ask attorneys about their success rates during the initial consultation. Many attorneys list their success rates on their websites. You should also inquire about their litigation philosophy and any memberships or bar associations they belong to.
2. Ask for a Free Consultation
A good employment lawyer will be able to help you understand what options you have for legal action. The attorney will also be able to explain how changes in employment law might impact your case.
While many attorneys will practice multiple areas of law, it is best to find one who specializes in the specific type of employment issue you are facing. You can do this by asking prospective lawyers how much of their practice is dedicated to employment law.
You should also ask whether they have handled cases similar to yours. Although most employment law disputes are resolved outside of the courtroom, it is important that your attorney is comfortable defending your rights in a trial.
3. Look for Referrals
One of the best ways to find a skilled employment lawyer is to ask for referrals from friends and family members. They may know someone who has filed an employment lawsuit and can tell you about their experience with the law firm and the attorney they worked with.
You should also look for referrals from employment organizations, such as the National Employment Lawyers Association. These groups often refer people to attorneys who specialize in employment cases and may offer free consultations.
Once you have a few names, visit their websites. The top firms will post detailed information about their lawyers, including education and background, legal experience, and practice areas.
4. Look for a Track Record
When you’re hiring an employment lawyer, it is important to look for a track record. A good place to start is by looking at the attorney’s website. Most attorneys will list representative cases on their website and include a brief description of the case.
Another place to find a good attorney is by asking friends and family for recommendations. They may have experienced a situation similar to yours, and can provide you with an insider’s perspective on the attorney’s work. They may also be able to refer you to an attorney who can handle your specific needs.
5. Look for Communication Skills
A good employment lawyer should be able to explain complex legal issues in simple terms. This is especially important because employment law is constantly evolving and new cases are being decided that may change established precedent.
Many communities run referral services that can help you find an attorney with the right experience. You can also visit a local bar association website to find attorneys who primarily focus on employment law.
Another great way to find a good employment lawyer is to ask for referrals from friends and family. They will likely be able to recommend an attorney who has the necessary experience and a proven track record.
6. Look for Fees
Many employment lawyers will offer a free consultation. This is an important part of the process and you should take advantage. The initial consultation will provide you with valuable information about the attorney’s experience.
Be sure to ask how much of the attorney’s practice is devoted to employment law. Some attorneys have a general civil law practice and may not be current on changes to employment laws or other developments in the field.
Also ask whether the attorney has handled cases similar to yours. If you are bringing a lawsuit against your employer for violation of wage and hour laws, the attorney should have experience in that area.
