Guide to Selecting a Myrtle Beach Lawyer

Have a problem but are unsure whom to turn to? Talking to the right type of attorney at the start cuts down on a lot of time and missteps. Find out what type of attorney you need and what area of law your situation is covered by.

• Personal Injury, such as auto accidents, medical malpractice, products liability (injuries from a defective product), brain injuries, wrongful death, dog bites, etc.
• Family Law, including divorce, custody, and child support
• Criminal Defense for all types of charges
• Business Law, both transactions and litigation
• Estate Planning, from simple wills to complex trusts
• Real Estate, both commercial and residential
• Bankruptcy
• Workers Compensation

Selecting an attorney is a big step and more than a little intimidating. Whether you go with a family friend, a coworker's recommendation or a lawyer online or in a directory, there are a few things you should know.

• Select a lawyer whose experience matches the area of law you need. You wouldn't use a divorce lawyer in a personal injury lawsuit.
• Choose an attorney that is in good standing. Check out what other
  lawyers say about your selection using Martindale-Hubbell Peer Review
  RatingsTM
• Find out what other people say about their experiences with a
  particular lawyer with Client Review Ratings
• Meeting with an attorney can only help you get the facts and make an
  informed decision. It never hurts to seek expert legal advice

Learn more about selecting an attorney on the web, from the yellow pages, or from referrals. Remember, knowledge is power and the more you have the better selection you can make.

Here is a handy checklist of basic questions to ask before you hire a lawyer:

• What is your experience in this field?
• Have you handled matters like mine?
• What are the possible outcomes of my case?
• What are my alternatives in resolving the matter?
• Approximately how long will it take to resolve?
• Do you recommend mediation or arbitration?
• What are your rates and how often will you bill me?
• What is a ballpark figure for the total bill, including fees and expenses?
• How will you keep me informed of progress?
• What kind of approach will you take to resolve the matter - aggressive and unyielding, or will you be more inclined to reach a reasonable settlement?
• Who else in the office will be working on my case?
• Can junior attorneys or paralegals in the office handle some of the substantive legal work at a lower rate?

When it comes to understanding your legal issues, Lawyers.com is the place to start.