How to pick an Attorney

[Adrian Smude]

I'm at the point to find an attorney to go forward with my business.  I plan to meet with a few very local ones today before I check the bigger city (Tampa, FL).  I have a small list of questions I've come up with but does anyone have any must ask questions?  Any tips for picking the right attorney?

[Chris Kennedy]

I have a few criteria for finding a good attorney:

1. As mentioned above by @Joel Owens he/she should be a specialist, not a generalist

2. I prefer older attorneys who have been active in the local area for many years,15-20 is ideal. If they go to court on a regular basis as part of their specialty (evictions attorneys for example), they should know the local judges and be able to give you insight on the likelihood of one outcome or another based on a judge's past decisions.

3. I usually look for small firms, with no more than 3 attorneys. That way you almost always work direct with your attorney. In most of the large firms your work will be delegated to a new associate, and you do not get the experience you're paying for. You will also likely take a back seat to bigger clients.

4. If you are starting out and have nobody to refer you to an attorney then use google to search local. Call at least 10 attorneys and see who gets back to you fastest (or at all) and who takes the time to speak with you.

5. Be prepared to pay a higher price for a more experienced attorney. It is usually worth it.

Good luck!