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Choosing the right lawyer can make a stark difference in the outcome of your case and your experience throughout the litigation process. Whether you’re dealing with workplace discrimination, retaliation, sexual harassment, or are a survivor of sexual assault, finding a lawyer who understands your needs and fights for your rights is crucial. This is something we understadn at Haeggquist & Eck, LLP
Here are 10 tips to help you choose the best lawyer for your case.
1. Identify Your Needs
Start by clearly identifying the nature of your case. Are you facing workplace discrimination, wrongful termination, or harassment? Are you a survivor of sexual assault seeking justice? Each type of case requires a lawyer with specific expertise and experience.
2. Ask for a Referral
Ask your network for a referral. If you know an attorney, regardless of the type of law they practice, they can refer you to an attorney they trust. At Haeggquist & Eck, we have built a formidable reputation in our community and often receive a lot of referrals from other attorneys.
3. Look for Specialization
Law is a broad field, and not every lawyer is equipped to handle every type of case. Seek lawyers who specialize in employee and survivor rights, such as those protecting employees from discrimination, retaliation, or sexual harassment. Their specialized knowledge will be invaluable in navigating the complexities of your case. At Haeggquist & Eck, we specialize in employee and survivor rights. Other lawyers specialize in representing employers. You want to find lawyers that represent individuals like you and not businesses.
4. Check Experience and Track Record
Experience matters. Look for lawyers with a proven track record in handling cases like yours. An experienced lawyer will know the best strategies to use and how to negotiate effectively.
5. Read Reviews and Testimonials
Client reviews and testimonials can provide insight into a lawyer’s reputation and how they manage cases. Look for feedback on their communication, professionalism, and results. Websites like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, and even Google Reviews can be useful sources of information.
6. Consider Communication Style
Effective communication is key to a successful lawyer-client relationship. During your initial consultation, pay attention to how the lawyer communicates. Are they listening to your concerns? Do they explain legal terms and processes clearly? You want a lawyer who keeps you informed and involved in your case.
7. Assess Their Compassion and Understanding
Dealing with discrimination, harassment, or assault can be emotionally draining. It is important to choose a lawyer who is knowledgeable, compassionate, and trauma informed. They should be someone who can offer emotional support and show genuine concern for your well-being.
Ask if the law firm is trauma-informed or has a survivor advocate on staff. At Haeggquist & Eck, we are leaders in providing trauma-informed support in the legal field. We have a credentialed survivor advocate on our team who provides training to our team and support for our clients. She practices grounding and empowering techniques with our clients, provides them with self-care items, and connects them to resources.
8. Evaluate Accessibility and Availability
Ask about their caseload. Many law firms maintain a high volume of cases which can lead to taking longer to resolve your case or a lack of attention to you and your case. At Haeggquist & Eck, we maintain a small caseload per attorney to ensure that each client and case gets the time and attention it deserves.
Your lawyer should be accessible and available to answer your questions and provide updates on your case. Ask about their availability and preferred methods of communication. You don’t want to be left in the dark about important developments in your case. Ask if you will be able to communicate with the lead attorney or will you be mostly communicating with paralegals and legal administrators.
9. Discuss Fees
Legal fees can be a concern, but don’t let cost be the sole factor in your decision. Many lawyers in discrimination and harassment cases work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your case. Make sure to discuss fees to avoid any surprises.
10. Trust Your Instincts
Finally, trust your instincts. You should feel comfortable and confident in your lawyer’s abilities. If something doesn’t feel right during your consultation, don’t hesitate to look elsewhere. The right lawyer for your case is out there; it just might take some time to find them.
Conclusion
Choosing the best lawyer for your case involves a combination of research, asking the right questions, asking for referrals, and trusting your gut. You deserve a lawyer who will not only represent you effectively but also provide trauma-informed compassionate support and direct communication through what can be a challenging time. At Haeggquist & Eck, we understand this might all be new or scary to you. We do our best to make sure you understand the process and provide support every step of the way. When you’re ready to stand up, we’ll stand with you.
