25.07.17
Choosing and checking a lawyer: tips for consumers
As a consumer looking to choose legal services, it is vital to check a person is who they say they are. Here, Regulation Matters offers some advice on how you do this, together with other tips to help you choose a lawyer.
1 Locality of lawyer
You may want to meet with your lawyer face-to-face. Some legal problems make it more likely that you will want to do this. So, think about how easy it will be to travel to the lawyer’s office. If you are happy to talk over the phone and send emails, the lawyer’s locality isn’t as important.
2 Types of legal work
It is sensible to choose a lawyer who has experience in the type of legal work you need.
The firms we regulate specialise in areas of legal work. They may also provide other legal services. Visit our directory of firms to find out more.
3 Costs
It pays to shop around. Costs for legal work can vary and how the costs are charged can vary too. Find out more here.
4 Initial discussion
Lawyers are often willing to discuss a legal problem with you before they take on your work. This may be in person or over the phone. Find out if this talk will be free, or if there will be a cost. If so, how much and how long will the meeting be.
5 Accessibility
Consumers may have accessibility needs. It is sensible to find out which firm can best help with your specific needs.
6 Recommendation
Many people ask someone they trust to recommend a lawyer. Remember these tips when you are deciding if this lawyer is the best person to help you.
7 Check a lawyer
Check that a lawyer is who they say they are before asking them to do work for you.
Go to our Practitioner Directory to check that a person is either a Chartered Legal Executive or a CILEx Practitioner.
8 Finally: other places to find help
For more information, visit Legal Choices and Citizens Advice.