The best way to find any help or service is through word of mouth. Ask your family, friends, coworkers, and neighbors for suggestions. Your relations and acquaintances may know a reputable and trustworthy lawyer from their past experiences.

Then, you should research any recommendations to verify their credentials and review other former clients. The internet has several websites dedicated to finding lawyers that provide prospective clients with reviews for past ones.

Some of the online resources available include the following:

• Attorneys.com
• LegalMatch.com
• FindLaw.com
• LawInfo.com
• USCourts.gov/court-records (for your lawyer’s win-loss records)

Once you narrow down the candidates, ask them questions to determine if he or she is the right attorney for you. For example, not all lawyers do personal injury cases, so it is important to ask them about their experience with car accidents claims.

Likewise, you should ask about payment for services. Fees can vary greatly. One firm may charge 10 percent of your compensation, while another charges 25 percent.

Some lawyers have an upfront, flat fee while others work on a contingency basis, meaning you only pay if you win your case. If you do not have money to pay an upfront fee, you will need to seek representation that accepts payments after compensation.

Most firms have free consultations, whether in person, virtually, or by phone. Use this time as an opportunity to get as much information about the legal team as possible.

Have a list of questions ready for the consultation. Find out what to know about personal injury lawyers on the next page.