The search for an attorney in New Jersey almost always begins on the internet. Some locals still connect with attorneys through word-of-mouth references yet the majority of attorney-client meetings occur after conducting an online search. There is an inherent risk in strictly relying on the information you find on the web as it could be slanted in favor of or against the attorney. When making your decision to hire an attorney in New Jersey, the best strategy is to take an all of the above approach. Most importantly, you should get on the phone and speak directly with your prospective lawyer.
Let’s shift our attention to five of the most important things to focus on when looking for a lawyer in New Jersey.
1. Experience With Your Legal Challenge
It does not make sense to hire a matrimonial attorney to prepare an Answer in response to being served with a Summons and Complaint for an unpaid debt. Nor would it be logical to hire a business law attorney in a quest to adopt a child. Narrow the search to attorneys who have experience with the practice area of law in question, focusing in on those with a specialization in that niche.
When in doubt, choose an attorney who has a track record of success serving clients with legal challenges similar to your own. Don’t forget to double-check the attorney’s metaphorical report card of sorts by confirming he or she is in good graces with the state bar that regulates legal practitioners.
There is no shame in asking for examples of previous cases the attorney has successfully litigated/settled. Some of those searching for an attorney in New Jersey even go as far as asking for references to reinforce claims of merit.
2. Look for a Legitimate Rapport
Take a moment to consider how you feel when in the presence of the New Jersey attorney you are considering to represent you in a court of law. Do you feel a good connection? You might not be able to get a true sense of the attorney’s sincerity and diligence through a phone call or online chat so don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment.
New Jersey attorneys are willing to meet with prospective clients face-to-face or online, reviewing case subject matter and providing clients with a sense of whether there is sufficient legal footing for a lawsuit. Continue searching until you find the right attorney in terms of personality, trust, experience, legal specialty and work ethic.
3. Jurisdiction Matters
Surf the web for New Jersey attorneys and you will find a seemingly endless number of results. Certain legal services websites claim to connect clients with local attorneys in New Jersey yet some such sites do not always connect justice-seekers with attorneys in the right jurisdiction. The first question to ask is whether your case is civil or criminal. The lawsuit must be filed in the court with the right jurisdiction, such as a specific County court, be it a criminal court or civil.
The first New Jersey lawyer you find might not have the experience or time necessary to take on your case. Furthermore, the attorney might not have experience navigating the court system in the jurisdiction where your case is to be filed. Find out if the attorney you are considering is licensed to practice law in New Jersey and has specific experience in your jurisdictions. The best New Jersey attorneys establish relationships with judges, court clerks and even opposing counsel to promote legal outcomes that benefit clients as well as the greater good of the community.
4. Consider Supply and Demand
If you are like most people in need of legal representation, you need the guidance of an attorney in New Jersey without delay. If the demand for the legal services of the attorney you have in mind is high and the firm lacks the personnel necessary to handle the hefty case load, your legal matter won’t receive the individualized attention it needs. The bottom line is the outcome of your legal conflict hinges on the availability, dedication and merit of the New Jersey attorney you select.
Ask questions about the firm’s case load before paying a retainer fee to secure legal services or agreeing to legal representation with an agreement of another form. These answers to these questions provide a better sense as to whether the firm’s current caseload has the potential to deter or enhance the service of justice.
5. An Attorney Worth His or Her Keep
Critics of the legal industry sometimes argue that legal services are overpriced. Though some “Big Law” practices certainly charge egregiously high rates following a sizable retainer, most New Jersey attorneys provide legal services at a reasonable price.
Take some time to find the right attorney in New Jersey and you’ll rest easy knowing he or she will provide your case with the attention it needs to end with a just result. Perform a deep dive into candidates at the start of the attorney search process and you’ll choose a legal representative in full confidence. Doing your homework now ensures you won’t be tempted to change attorneys mid-case, a potentially devastating setback that would jeopardize your chances of obtaining a settlement or favorable court award.
My firm has tried and won civil cases in Bergen, Hudson, Essex, Middlesex, and Ocean counties. In addition, we’ve represented clients successfully throughout New Jersey on appeals. Contact me today to discuss your matter or call now at 201.342.1700.
