Have you somehow managed to get into some sticky business and are now seeking a way to go about the legal dispute? Civil disputes can be financially damaging, and having a qualified civil litigation lawyer in your camp is essential to help you navigate the tricky waters.
However, with so many attorneys out there, it can be hard to find the perfect one. That’s why we’ve drawn up this list to help you identify the right one. Before hiring a civil litigation lawyer, ask them the following questions:
What is Your Experience in Civil Law and Litigation?
A civil litigation attorney can only become adept in civil law through sufficient courtroom experience. Ask the lawyer you want to hire how many cases they've argued in front of a jury or judge to ascertain their experience level.
Have You Handled Cases Like Mine?
Another question you should ask is if they've handled a similar case. Attorneys usually perform better when working with cases they're familiar with. The experience from the former case can help them better understand, synthesize, and clarify your case.
Who Will Be Handling the Case?
Inquire about who will access your information and who will treat the case. Sometimes, the work isn't handled solely by the lawyer but in tandem with their team. Here, you should clarify that all case decisions will be unanimously decided within the legal team.
Can You Win My Case if You're in the Opposition?
It's a plus to have a civil litigation lawyer who sees the case from both ends of the spectrum and can objectively assess the matter with deductive reasoning. An attorney with such a capability clearly indicates that they can brilliantly process facts and legal materials to facilitate the success of your side of the case.
What Are the Possible Outcomes of My Case?
Several civil litigation cases do not require court settlement, and your attorney should outline all possible options before proceeding. The attorney should be able to tell you your chances of success or failure and guide you through the process at every turn.
Are There Alternatives to a Trial?
Ask your civil litigation attorney about the alternatives to a trial and the benefits of early mediation. Also, discuss the various arbitration options, such as alternative dispute resolution, which is often more effective and cheaper than a trial, particularly in business-related legal disputes.
What Are Your Costs?
Attorney services are pretty expensive, so getting maximum value for the best service is essential. You can pay your attorney in billable hours, where they charge you per hour spent on the case. Alternatively, they can charge a flat fee. However, note that this fee may not cover additional legal costs like applying for a hearing with the Fair Work Commission.
Hire the Right Attorneys for Your Civil Disputes
If you go on to hire an attorney without asking the right questions, you may end up getting less than what you bargained for. Hiring an experienced and trusted civil litigation attorney can benefit you in the short and long run and help you avoid costly financial liabilities in your business. Reach out to us today.