FAQ's
Q: Which lawyer would be right for my case?
A: This depends on the complexity of your legal requirements. We suggest that you speak to or email at least two different lawyers to determine if your case is complex or if you require a lawyer specializing in a certain area of law. See Finding a Lawyer.
Q: Do lawyers charge for an initial consultation?
A: The legal field has become competitive and you will find that many lawyers may offer a free initial consultation to ascertain your needs and case. However, that is something that you need to discuss with the lawyer before you meet with him or her.
Q: Can LawSearchCanada.com provide me with a referral to a lawyer?
A: No. To ensure your privacy and confidentiality, LawSearchCanada.com does not refer you to any lawyers through a web-related referral service. If you use a third party directory that does offer to review and forward your case to several lawyers, your information may not be secure and may be read by others. LawSearchCanada.com is a directory comprised of lawyers who practise in difference areas of law. You may contact any number of these lawyers directly either through their website, email or by telephone, thereby protecting your privacy and confidentiality.
Q: I'm not sure what kind of lawyer I need.
A: Lawyers specialize in one or more areas of law. General practitioners, however, practice in a wide range of practice areas. If your legal matter involves a specialized area of law, such as criminal, family, litigation, bankruptcy, taxation or patent law, then you need to contact a specialist in that area. If you are dealing with a general matter, then a general practitioner may be able to help you. Before you retain a lawyer, please ask whether he/she specializes in a specific area of law.
Please review the Areas of Practice for a brief description of the areas of law.
Q: How can I tell if the lawyer is right for me?
A: The initial consultation or meeting with the lawyer is an important factor in your decision to hire an lawyer to help you. The following are a few points to consider:
- Does the lawyer listen well when you explain your situation and does he/she understand your problem?
- Can the lawyer explain the law to you in an understandable way and how it applies to your legal issue?
- Does the lawyer give you confidence that he/she can solve your legal problem cost-effectively?
- Ask about the lawyer's legal fees and whether he/she requires a retainer.
- Does the lawyer and his staff treat you courteously and professionally?
- Ask the lawyer about conflicts of interest. Does the lawyer represent your employer or other interested party?
- Ask for references. You should talk to people who could comment on the lawyer’s skills and trustworthiness. The best reference is one of the lawyer’s current or former clients. You can also check with other lawyers.
- Ask for a copy of a firm brochure, promotional materials and the lawyer's website (if any).
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