Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Lawyer

The single best way to feel in control when hiring a lawyer is to walk in with good questions. You do not need legal training to ask them, and a strong attorney will welcome them. Below is a practical set of questions organized by topic. Bring this list to each consultation and take notes so you can compare candidates fairly.

Questions About Experience

• How often do you handle cases like mine?
• Are you licensed and in good standing with the Florida Bar?
• Do you regularly appear in the court or county where my matter would be handled?
• Will you personally handle my case, or will it be passed to another lawyer or paralegal?

Questions About Strategy

• Based on what I have told you, what are my options?
• What is the likely process and rough timeline?
• What are the biggest risks or challenges you see?
• What outcome is realistic, and what would you need to know more to advise?

Be wary of anyone who promises a specific result. Honest uncertainty is a good sign, not a weakness.

Questions About Fees

• How do you charge: hourly, flat fee, or contingency?
• What is your best estimate of total cost, and what could increase it?
• Are court costs and expenses separate from your fee?
• Do you require a retainer, and is any unused portion refundable?

For background on each fee type, see our legal fees explained page.

Questions About Communication

• Who is my main point of contact, and how do I reach them?
• How quickly do you typically respond to calls and emails?
• How and how often will you update me on my case?

Communication problems are one of the most common client complaints, so it is worth setting expectations early.

Questions About Logistics

• What do you need from me to get started?
• What can I do to keep costs down and move things along?
• Are there any deadlines I should be aware of right now?

Questions to Ask Yourself

After the meeting, reflect honestly: Did I understand the lawyer’s answers? Did I feel respected and heard? Were the fees clear? Could I see working with this person for the length of my case? Your comfort matters, because legal matters can stretch on for months.

If any answers raised concerns, check them against our red flags guide. When you are ready to move forward, the hiring checklist keeps the final steps organized. Asking thorough questions now is the cheapest insurance you can buy against problems later.

This page is general consumer education, not legal advice.

For more on our Florida practice, see our overview of powers of attorney in Florida. Morgan Legal Group's affiliated New York office also handles New York probate and estate administration.