How to Choose the Best Attorney

Believe it or not there are 26,459 active, resident practicing attorneys in Georgia. How do you choose the one that best fits your situation? It can be overwhelming to say the least. Please note: the below suggestions constitute my opinions only. I have been plaintiff's litigation legal assistant specializing in cases of catastrophic injury and wrongful death involving aviation accidents, automotive and general products liability, car, truck, and construction accidents, medical malpractice, and premises liability for over 18 years. I have seen the good, the bad and the ugly. Below are my suggestions for finding the attorney best suited for you.

• Ask your relatives, friends, and business colleagues for a reference. Needless to say, if they will recommend an attorney they have used, then they were satisfied with the services provided.
• Do you have a friend or relative in the legal profession? Of the 26,000 attorneys listed as active in Georgia, they have staff. Chances are you have a friend, neighbor or relative who is associated with the legal profession. Ask who they would choose if they needed an attorney.
• Contact your local bar association. This could be on the city or state level. Although the attorneys who are listed as members pay a fee to be on the referral list, they must adhere to strict ethical standards and must be in good standing with the state bar.
• Finally, shop around. There is no limit to the number of attorneys you can interview prior to choosing one. I recommend contacting and meeting with at least 3 prior to making a decision.