Most people have no idea how to choose a lawyer. Everyone wants to hire the “best lawyer” but they have no idea how to determine who that is. I want to help you with that decision by giving you the one question to ask that no one ever asks.

 

 

Before I do though, there are a couple of things you need to understand.

  • There is no "best lawyer" for every case. Everyone’s situation is different and their goals are different. You may know you want to go to trial and prove your innocence, or you may be more interested in getting your case resolved quickly and without all the stress of a trial. Depending on your goals one lawyer may be a better fit than another.
  • You may not be able to afford the best lawyer. If I was falsely accused of a serious charge there are only a handful of lawyers I would go to if I could. They aren’t cheap and depending on the charge the fees could easily go into six figures. On the other hand, if it’s a fairly simple case that I know can be resolved quickly I don’t need to spend $50,000 for the all out “take no prisoners” approach.
  • There is no perfect solution for any case. Most lawyers approach a case with their idea of the best solution. That may or may not be your view of the best solution. The best resolution of any case is one that takes into account your particular circumstances and situation.

What's the worst reason to hire a lawyer?

With those understandings, the first thing I will tell you is that cost is that absolute WORST reason to hire a particular lawyer. This goes both ways. Some people want to hire the most expensive lawyer, thinking they are the best. More often  than not It’s usually the other way though, and people go with the cheapest lawyer. Over the years I’ve talked to hundreds of people who went with the cheaper lawyer and came back to either have me take a case over, or fix something after it’s been done. 

So, you’re probably wondering when I’m going to tell you the one question to ask. Here it is:

 

What do other lawyers say about you?

This isn’t a question that’s asked very often so most lawyers don’t have a ready answer for it. Those that do are the ones who other lawyers refer cases to, or hire if they or a family member are in trouble. Other lawyers - especially other criminal defense lawyers - know who the good lawyers are. They know who fights for their clients and get good results because they know what good results look like.

 

So there’s your question. Ask that and I guarantee help you in making your decision.

 

If you are looking for a lawyer and believe we may be a good fit for you please contact us. You can call 254-296-0020 or fill out the contact form on this page.

 

 
Walter Reaves
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Criminal Defense Attorney Walter Reaves has been practicing law for over 35 years.