how to choose a contract attorney

by Thad Morissette 4 min read

Finding the right contract lawyer can seem like an overwhelming task, but there are resources available to make the process easier. One of the most reliable resources you will find is personal references. Ask family and friends if they know of a lawyer that specializes in contracts that they would recommend.

It's best to work with a lawyer that's experienced in the exact document type that you're handling. For complex business contracts, a lawyer that's familiar with your industry is a plus. Ask about the lawyer's past accomplishments. Some may have received professional recognition or awards for their work.Nov 9, 2020

Full Answer

When should you hire a contract lawyer?

Various legal repercussions can be faced if a contract is found to be void, unenforceable, or unconscionable. It may be in your best interests to hire a contract lawyer in your area if you need help at any stage of a contract situation. Your attorney can help with negotiating, drafting, and reviewing a contract.

How do I choose the right lawyer?

Follow these steps to become a contract attorney: Get a bachelor's degree. This degree can be in any field, with common areas of study being history, international relations and political science. Pass the Law School Admission Test (LSAT). All law school attendees must first take and pass the LSAT to be admitted into a law program. Attend law ...

Do I need a lawyer to review a contract?

In the end, you'll need to pass the bar exam for you to be able to get your business thriving. Once you are legally licensed to practice law, you can start looking for contract lawyer work through temp agencies. Look for the temp agencies on the Internet or in your local yellow pages. There are some temp agencies that are specialists in ...

What does a contract lawyer do?

Aug 18, 2021 · If you're interested in becoming a Contract Attorney, one of the first things to consider is how much education you need. We've determined that 35.9% of Contract Attorneys have a bachelor's degree. In terms of higher education levels, we found that 6.0% of Contract Attorneys have master's degrees.

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How do I decide what kind of lawyer to get?

Here are a few questions to help you determine what type of law would be a good fit for you:How Much Do You Like to Argue?How Motivated You Are by Money?How Much Control Do You Need Over Your Work Life?How Much Interaction Do You Need With Other People?What Do You Like to Do?Dec 11, 2019

Who can help me with contracts?

attorneyAn attorney can help you get better contract terms, saving you money. Attorneys usually write contracts in a way that favors their clients. An attorney with experience in your industry will know what the customary contract terms are.

Should you have a lawyer when signing a contract?

If a contract is drafted and signed without proper review, you may agree to something that is against your best interests. A lawyer can ensure you reach advantageous terms that protect you from liability. An attorney is also beneficial in ensuring all terms are legal.Aug 8, 2019

Can I write my own contract?

The simple answer is YES. You can write your own contracts. There is no requirement that they must be written by a lawyer. There is no requirement that they have to be a certain form or font.Feb 26, 2019

What is considered consideration in a contract?

In order for any contract to be enforceable under the law, each party needs to exchange something of value known as “consideration” (in most cases, this is payment for goods or services by the buyer, and then provision of the goods or services by the seller).

What are the clauses in a contract?

Common clauses in a contract may include: Payment amounts; When payment must be delivered; The types of goods or services being sold; When the goods or services must be delivered or performed; Whether the contract can be assigned to another party. Remedies in the event of a breach.

Why is it important to read a contract?

Each party has a general duty to read a contract so they understand its terms and their duties. When it comes to negotiating, forming, drafting, and reviewing a contract, the guidance and services of a contract lawyer can be very helpful.

What is a contract between two parties?

A contract may be defined as an agreement between two parties, which creates legal obligations for each side to perform certain acts. Once the agreement is formalized, each party then becomes legally bound to fulfill their contractual obligations, such as making a payment or providing goods. In order for any contract to be enforceable under ...

What is a breach of contract?

A breach of contract can either be minor or material. A minor breach is one that is relatively insignificant and allows the rest of the contract to be completed. In contrast, material breaches are more serious and make it difficult or impossible to complete the contract terms. Non-disclosure violations in a contract.

What is unconscionable contract?

The contract was unconscionable (i.e., so one-sided that it would be considered unfair to one party ); may also be used as a defense to breach of contract; Non-disclosure violations in a contract. There may be various other ways to breach a contract.

What is contract reformation?

Contract Reformation: In some cases, courts may allow the parties to “reform” or change the contract. Reformation of a contract may be available in cases involving misrepresentation, or mistaken terms in the contract; Contract Rescission: This is where the court cancels a contract.

What to consider when choosing a lawyer?

While there are many professional things to consider when choosing a lawyer, their character should also factor into your decision. Find someone that is trustworthy and makes you feel comfortable. Mutual respect is also important.

How to be a good attorney?

A good attorney should also take the time to explain complicated matters, provide you with plain English advice on your situation, and present you with an array of options or solutions to mull over before deciding on a plan of action.

What is the area of law?

Area of law. Lawyers tend to specialize in certain areas of law, as it is a very large field of study, similar to medicine. Some cover real estate law, while others pursue business, family, intellectual property, immigration, employment, accident/injury, bankruptcy, criminal, or civil rights law.

How to find out about a lawyer's practice history?

You can find out information about their practicing history by simply asking them, or checking out their firm’s website (if they have one). An attorney with more experience may be more valuable, but only if their experience matches your situation, as well as your budget.

What to do when you hire someone to perform a service?

When you hire someone to perform a service or offer advice, you want to ensure that they know their stuff. You may need to ask for referrals from people who have worked with them before. You can also seek out referral services online who can pair you with a locally certified lawyer suited to your needs.

How does the size of a law firm affect your decision?

The size of the law firm can affect your decision in a few ways. Larger firms are usually more established and have greater resources, but can also be more costly.

How to avoid missed meetings?

Often, between paperwork and meetings, there can be a tendency to fall out of touch. Try to establish proactive communication at the beginning. Mention your preferred form of communication and discuss your hours, so you are both on the same page . This will prevent missed meetings or phone calls.

What degree do I need to become a contract attorney?

Other degrees that we often see on contract attorney resumes include master's degree degrees or associate degree degrees. You may find that experience in other jobs will help you become a contract attorney. In fact, many contract attorney jobs require experience in a role such as law clerk.

How much do contract attorneys make?

Contract Attorneys in America make an average salary of $82,804 per year or $40 per hour. The top 10 percent makes over $134,000 per year, while the bottom 10 percent under $51,000 per year.

How long does a contract lawyer work?

In general, a contract attorney works on legal cases on an as-needed or temporary basis. Contracts can be for a few days, a few weeks, or even a few years. Generally, a contract lawyer's core responsibility is drawing up and reviewing legal contracts and documents. They may also perform contract research, prepare case strategies, ...

What is location quotient?

Location Quotient is a measure used by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) to determine how concentrated a certain industry is in a single state compared to the nation as a whole. You can read more about how BLS calculates location quotients here

Need Help Drafting Or Enforcing A Contract?

Whether you are a small business, large company, or individual, a contracts lawyer can offer the legal advice you need when dealing with contracts.

How Do I Choose A Contract Lawyer?

Consider the following when determining which law firm should provide legal representation for your contract case:

What does legal insurance cover?

These plans vary. Many cover most, if not all, of the cost of legal consultations, document preparation, and court representation in routine legal matters. Other programs cover only advice and consultation with a lawyer.

How long can you be in jail for a crime?

Constitution guarantees you the right to be represented by a lawyer in any case in which you could be incarcerated for six months or more. State constitutions may guarantee your right to a lawyer for lesser crimes.

Can you be incarcerated for six months?

If you are accused of a crime, the U.S. Constitution guarantees you the right to be represented by a lawyer in any case in which you could be incarcerated for six months or more. State constitutions may guarantee your right to a lawyer for lesser crimes. If you cannot afford a lawyer, either the judge hearing the case will appoint a private lawyer to represent you free of charge or the government’s public defender will handle your case, also at no charge.

Learn How We Draft and Negotiate in the Real World

Contracts expert Laura Frederick explains what you need to know about contracts to protect your clients, negotiate with confidence, and advance your career.

How to Contract Network

Our community is a place where attorneys and professionals go for ongoing contract training. You'll find all of my contract tips indexed by topic and searchable by keyword, available online or by email. You can ask questions at the Contract Help Desk. Plus so much more!

How to Contract Courses

Contract lawyers and professionals are technicians first. How to Contract courses will empower you to understand commercial agreements from beginning to end. No fluff, to-the-point, what you need to know knowledge and practices that can be applied right away for immediate impact.

Your Skills, Your Team, Your Business

It’s time to get going with a convenient, comprehensive, and cost-efficient program designed to give lawyers and professionals advanced knowledge of contract law on their terms.

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Long Or Short term?

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Before you begin looking online, or asking colleagues, friends, or family for referrals, you need to address your own needs first. Why do you need an attorney? Do you have a legal problem that you cannot solve on your own? If so, would a professional be able to help? After you have identified you do need legal assistan…
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Area of Law

  • Lawyers tend to specialize in certain areas of law, as it is a very large field of study, similar to medicine. Some cover real estate law, while others pursue business, family, intellectual property, immigration, employment, accident/injury, bankruptcy, criminal, or civil rights law. Attorneys can also be open to a wide range of situations, in which case they are referred to as general practice …
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Are They Highly regarded?

  • When you hire someone to perform a service or offer advice, you want to ensure that they know their stuff. You may need to ask for referrals from people who have worked with them before. You can also seek out referral services online who can pair you with a locally certified lawyer suited to your needs. Personal recommendations or connections can also be valuable, such as friends or …
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Location

  • Laws vary by state. This means you should look for someone in your area who is familiar with the region’s legal requirements. If you happen to live in a rural area with limited resources, you can use other methods of contact, such as phone or email, to discuss smaller issues. With larger legal matters, or for long term counsel, it’s important to find someone close to you so that you can de…
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Experience

  • In addition to someone with a specialization in the area of law you require, choose an attorney with experience cases similar to your own. You can find out information about their practicing history by simply asking them, or checking out their firm’s website (if they have one). An attorney with more experience may be more valuable, but only if their experience matches your situation, …
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Size of Firm

  • The size of the law firm can affect your decision in a few ways. Larger firms are usually more established and have greater resources, but can also be more costly. Smaller firms may be more personal and perhaps less expensive, but they may be limited in their services if they don’t specialize in the area of law that you desire.
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Cost and Billing

  • Ultimately, cost will be a factor when you’re choosing an attorney. How much you are willing to spend is up to you. You can gather more information beforehand by asking the lawyer for a quote, as well as how they bill their clients. It could be an hourly fee, a flat rate, a contingency fee, a negotiable fee, or possibly even a retainer for future fees. Find out if the fee includes expenses (…
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Compatibility

  • While there are many professional things to consider when choosing a lawyer, their character should also factor into your decision. Find someone that is trustworthy and makes you feel comfortable. Mutual respect is also important. A lawyer who will work hard for you, exercise good judgment, and be thorough and thoughtful in the process is a valuable asset.
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Availability

  • Does the lawyer you want to hire have enough time to dedicate to your case? How is their caseload? Can they take on your case immediately? These are important questions to ask if you plan on being in contact with the attorney often. If they appear to be overworked, consider looking for someone else who has the time to attend to your needs.
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Communication

  • Communication goes hand in hand with compatibility and availability. Often, between paperwork and meetings, there can be a tendency to fall out of touch. Try to establish proactive communication at the beginning. Mention your preferred form of communication and discuss your hours, so you are both on the same page. This will prevent missed meetings or phone calls…
See more on lawdepot.com