When hiring a lawyer in Phoenix, AZ, being prepared with the right questions is crucial. An informed client makes the legal process more efficient and productive, allowing both you and your attorney to use your time effectively. This guide from Feldman & Royle outlines the most important questions to ask when hiring a lawyer in Phoenix, helping you make confident and informed decisions.
Top 9 Questions To Ask When Hiring a Lawyer
When preparing for a consultation with a lawyer, it’s essential to have a list of questions ready. A well-prepared client is a lawyer’s best partner, as it helps both of you make the most of your limited time. This guide, brought to you by Feldman & Royle, will help you prepare for your meeting by outlining key questions to ask a lawyer during a consultation.
Too often I get calls from potential clients that are unhappy with their existing attorney. Despite being different people with different cases, the complaints I hear seem to focus around the same basic concerns:
- The lawyer fails to communicate;
- The attorney isn’t working their case diligently;
- The lawyer lacks the skills necessary to handle their matter.
While these complaints are legitimate, they are often completely foreseeable and avoidable. The bottom line is that no one likes hiring a lawyer but unfortunately, sometimes it’s necessary. By considering these 10 questions before hiring a lawyer, you can be sure that you hire the right lawyer for your case and that you avoid being stuck in criminal litigation with an inexperienced or inferior attorney.
1. How long has the attorney been practicing law?
Perfecting a skill comes after repetition and dedication. If the attorney you plan to hire has not been practicing for an adequate number of years he or she may lack the expertise necessary to properly handle your case.
PUT SIMPLY: Would you want a doctor performing surgery for the first time? Or would you prefer your surgeon to be a doctor that had performed the surgery thousands of times?
2. Does the attorney centralize their practice around the area of law that you need?
In a legal community as large as Phoenix, most attorneys specialize their practice to only one area of law in order to hone their skills. When an attorney practices in multiple disciplines, it leaves open the potential of doing many things ok but none well. When you’re charged with a crime, you cannot risk having an attorney that isn’t 100% prepared for every nuance of the criminal justice system. Make sure that your attorney practices only criminal law and doesn’t also work in family law, personal injuries or other areas in addition to criminal law.
3. Is the person you are talking to during the initial consultation even a lawyer? If they are a lawyer, will they be the lawyer handling your case?
Some law firms employ sales agents who are non-attorneys to conduct the initial consultation. While these individuals may have compelling sales strategies for earning your business, because they do not actually practice law much of their advice is meant to drive sales rather than inform prospective clients. Ensuring that you are meeting with a licensed attorney is paramount to a productive consultation.
Just as some law firms employ non-lawyer sales associates to consult with potential clients, many other law firms employ full-time attorneys to act as the sales arm of the intake process. While these attorneys are often experienced and knowledgeable, their litigation skills often fade as they spend time selling legal services rather than dedicating time in the courtroom. If you’re hiring a lawyer, ask the attorney handling the intake if they will be the lawyer handling your case or if your case will be delegated to a less experienced lawyer.
4. Are you hiring a lawyer that will be available to answer questions and address concerns throughout the representation?
Some lawyers will give clients access to their personal cell phones and make themselves available via email and text at nights and on weekends. Other attorneys channel all communication through support staff. Before hiring a lawyer, ask the attorney how they anticipate handling client contact in an effort to manage expectations.
5. Does the attorney have experience working with your specific judge and prosecutor?
While many attorneys may focus their individual practices towards criminal law, repeated exposure to specific courts will add tremendous value as the attorney will be able to utilize their exposure to a judge’s proclivities in order to predict future outcomes. If you’re thinking about hiring a lawyer, be sure they have experience with the court and judge that will be handling your case.
Just as knowing a judge’s tendencies can offer predictability in motion practice and sentencing, knowing the opposing counsel’s strengths and weaknesses can lead to tremendous strategic advantages. Ensuring that the attorney you hire has experience with your specific prosecutor and the individual prosecuting agencies offers unique leverage.
6. What do online reviews say about the attorney and/or law firm?
While online reviews should be viewed with some degree of skepticism, comments or concerns from previous clients can alert potential clients to problems before they arise. Google Reviews, Avvo.com and Yelp offer potential clients the ability to read about the experiences of the attorney’s past clients which can provide invaluable insights concerning client communication, bedside manner and case outcomes.
7. Does hiring a lawyer match your budget?
Most criminal attorneys work on flat fee with some form of a payment plan. Flat fee means that the client pays a one-time fee for the entirety of the case with no need to refill the retainer account at any point in representation. While the flat fee allows the client the ability to forecast litigation expenses, when payments are missed the attorney will generally withdraw. The last thing a client wants to do is get into a payment plan with an attorney if they cannot afford the payments as outlined by the contract. When this happens, the attorney will withdraw from the case as the case approaches trial and the client needs the attorney most.
8. What accounts for the range in prices from one law firm to another?
While many external factors often contribute to the overall cost of representation, legal fees are normally a byproduct of the cost of the lawyer’s time multiplied by the time that the attorney anticipates will need to be spent on representation. It is often said that when legal fees are exceptionally low it means:
- The lawyer’s time is not worth anything; or
- The lawyer is not intending to spend the necessary time on your case.
Before hiring a lawyer, make sure you understand the costs associated with the lawyer and what you expect to receive for the fee you are paying.
9. Are there any hidden costs?
Any lawyer worth hiring should have their fees clearly outlined in a fee agreement and should be upfront about their fees during initial discussions. Travel time, copies and nominal costs associated with the investigation should be included in your fee. Costs that are not normally included in standard attorney’s fees include: expert witness fees, private investigators, out-of-state or county travel and the cost of trial. Be sure that any attorney you speak to clearly addresses what costs are included in the flat fee representation and which costs are not.
SIDE NOTE: Some criminal defense attorneys include the cost of trial in their flat fee, however, some do not. Be sure to inquire if the cost of trial is included in the flat fee and if it is, then what the cost of the trial is. At Feldman & Royle, we normally bifurcate our trial fee so that you only pay the fee if the case in fact proceeds to trial.
If you have doubts or concerns about any of the answers a lawyer has provided you to the 9 questions above – don’t hire them. At Feldman & Royle, we pride ourselves on a low-volume practice centered on the needs of our individual clients. Our dedication to defending those charged with various crimes, mixed with our countless years of experience is what truly sets us apart. To discuss hiring a lawyer or questions about your specific case, feel free to text call or email us. For a list of Feldman & Royle profiles, click here.
Why Choose Us as Your Criminal Defense Lawyer in Phoenix AZ?
At Feldman & Royle, we understand that hiring the right lawyer can make all the difference in your case. Whether you’re facing criminal charges, DUI allegations, or other complex legal issues, our team of qualified & trusted lawyers is committed to delivering the highest level of representation, personalized attention, and proven results. Here’s why clients across Arizona and trust us with their most important legal matters:
1. Decades of Combined Legal Experience
Our criminal defense lawyers bring years of experience from both sides of the courtroom — including former prosecutors who know how the system works from the inside. This unique perspective allows us to anticipate the opposition’s strategies, craft stronger defenses, and achieve the best possible outcomes for our clients.
2. Proven Track Record of Success
Feldman & Royle has built a strong reputation for achieving favorable results in even the most challenging cases. From dismissals and reduced charges to successful trial verdicts, our case results speak for themselves. We fight tirelessly to protect your rights, your freedom, and your future.
3. Personalized Legal Strategy
No two cases are alike. That’s why we take the time to understand your situation, your goals, and your concerns. We develop customized legal strategies that are specifically tailored to your case, ensuring you get the representation that fits your needs — not a one-size-fits-all approach.
4. Clear Communication & Transparency
Legal issues can be stressful and confusing. We believe in open, honest communication from start to finish. Our attorneys keep you informed about every development in your case, explain your options in plain language, and ensure you always know what to expect.
5. Client-Centered Approach
At Feldman & Royle, you’re more than just a case number. We treat every client with compassion, respect, and dedication. From the moment you contact us, you’ll experience our commitment to providing top-quality legal service and genuine care for your well-being.
6. Local Knowledge, Statewide Reach
As a firm based in Phoenix, AZ, we have a deep understanding of Arizona’s courts, laws, and local procedures. This insight allows us to navigate the system efficiently and strategically, providing you with a strong advantage both in and out of the courtroom.
7. Free, Confidential Consultations
We believe everyone deserves access to strong legal guidance. That’s why we offer free, confidential consultations to discuss your case, answer your questions, and help you make informed decisions — without pressure or obligation.
Your Future Deserves the Best Defense
When your freedom and reputation are on the line, trust the experienced criminal defense team at Feldman & Royle. We combine legal expertise, personal commitment, and proven success to give you the best possible defense.
Contact us today to schedule your free consultation and see why so many clients in Phoenix, AZ, choose Feldman & Royle when it matters most.
Hiring a Lawyer – The 10 Best Questions to Ask says:
Eli Richardson says:
It really helped when you said that when looking for a lawyer, it’s important to ask how long has the attorney been practicing law. In my opinion, hiring a person that has not been long enough in the business is not very reliable. And could not know what to do in certain situations. That’s why I agree with you on how perfecting a skill comes after repetition and dedication. I appreciate your information about what to ask when hiring a lawyer.