how to find a good civil lawsuit attorney

by Dr. Braeden Hilpert I 4 min read

  1. Identify your type of civil rights dispute. Your civil rights can be violated in a variety of ways. ...
  2. Write down your memories of the incident. Even before finding a lawyer, you should begin to pull together all of the evidence you have that relates to the civil ...
  3. Find witnesses. You should also try to get the names and contact information for anyone who witnessed the discrimination.
  4. Preserve documents. Save any document related to your civil rights claim. These documents can include emails, letters, memos, and police reports.
  5. Locate the county in which you suffered discrimination. Generally, you can bring a lawsuit in the county where the discrimination occurred or where the defendant lives or does business.

Full Answer

Where can I find a lawyer for a lawsuit?

Given the extent of legal services that a lawsuit lawyer can offer, it would certainly be in your best interest to speak with one about your particular civil law claim. On a final note, if the reason you have not yet hired one is because you do not know where to begin your search, you should consider using LegalMatch’s services to connect you with a qualified civil attorney who …

How do I find a good lawyer?

Find help with Super Lawyers. Civil litigation attorneys advise a variety of defense or plaintiff clients in a broad range of non-criminal litigation matters. Common types of civil litigation include: environmental law, landlord and tenant disputes, or workers’ compensation. Focusing on legal proceedings, civil litigation attorneys assist ...

What does a lawsuit lawyer do?

Sep 09, 2019 · There are many ways to find a reliable lawyer. One of the best is a recommendation from a trusted friend, relative, or business associate. Be aware, however, that each legal case is different and that a lawyer who is right for someone else may not suit you or your legal problem.

Should I hire a lawyer for a civil law claim?

Personal injury lawyers specialize in tort law, which is the law of civil wrongs like car accidents, company wrongdoing, unlawful imprisonment and more. To become qualified to be a personal injury lawyer in the United States, a person must earn a bachelor’s degree, followed by a Doctor of Jurisprudence degree from a law school.

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How do I choose a good lawyer for my case?

How To Choose the Right Lawyer: Ten Points to Consider When Selecting an AttorneyIdentify Your Legal Problem and Use a Specialist. ... Make Sure the Attorney has the Right Experience. ... Expect the Attorney to be a Good Communicator. ... Consider the Attorney's Professionalism.More items...

What are the three most common types of civil cases?

These are some of the most common types of cases to appear in civil court.Contract Disputes. Contract disputes occur when one or more parties who signed a contract cannot or will not fulfill their obligations. ... Property Disputes. ... Torts. ... Class Action Cases. ... Complaints Against the City.Aug 4, 2020

What does a civil attorney do?

What Is a Civil Attorney? Civil attorneys are more popularly known as litigators. These professionals work primarily on civil lawsuits filed in civil courts but they may also participate in arbitration and mediation processes. These trials and processes may take place aren't always found in the courtroom.Jun 11, 2018

What should I look for in a good lawyer?

7 Qualities to Look For in a LawyerExperience. Although it's not essential to find an expert in your particular field, it makes sense to look for someone who specializes in small-business problems as opposed to, say maritime law. ... Understanding. ... Ability to communicate. ... Availability. ... Rapport. ... References. ... Reasonable fees.Feb 28, 2013

What are the most common civil lawsuits?

Civil casesPersonal Injury Tort Claims. One of the most common cases in civil litigation is personal injury claims. ... Contract Disputes. ... Equitable Claims. ... Class Action Suits. ... Divorce and Family Law Disputes. ... Property Disputes.Aug 24, 2020

What is a remedy in Civil Law?

Civil remedies are procedures and sanctions, specified by civil stat- utes and regulations, used to prevent or reduce criminal problems and incivilities. Civil remedies generally aim to persuade or coerce non- offending third parties to take responsibility and action to prevent or end criminal or nuisance behavior.

What is considered a violation of civil rights?

A civil rights violation is any offense that occurs as a result or threat of force against a victim by the offender on the basis of being a member of a protected category. For example, a victim who is assaulted due to their race or sexual orientation. Violations can include injuries or even death.Jun 11, 2020

What is a civil problem?

"Civil" cases are the cases in which private citizens (or companies) sue each other in court. Civil cases are not about breaking a criminal law. ... General civil cases, usually involving suing someone for money in disputes over things like contracts, damage to property, or someone getting hurt.

What type of lawyer makes the most?

Types Of Lawyers That Make The Most MoneyMedical Lawyers – Average $138,431. Medical lawyers make one of the highest median wages in the legal field. ... Intellectual Property Attorneys – Average $128,913. ... Trial Attorneys – Average $97,158. ... Tax Attorneys – Average $101,204. ... Corporate Lawyers – $116,361.Dec 18, 2020

What do people want in an attorney?

According to a new survey by Seattle legal company Avvo Inc., the three lowest-ranking characteristics people want in their lawyers are ambitious (12 percent), friendly (15 percent) and reassuring (18 percent).Dec 3, 2013

What does an immigration attorney do?

Immigration lawyers help their clients through all phases of the immigration process. Experts on immigration law, they are legally qualified to rep...

What is a personal injury lawyer?

A personal injury lawyer fights on your behalf if you’ve been injured physically, psychologically, economically or in reputation. This injury may b...

How much does a bankruptcy attorney cost?

Hourly rates for bankruptcy attorneys range from $200-$300 . In total, customers spend an average of $999-$1,183 for their services. But because l...

How do you find a good real estate lawyer?

If buying or selling property feels overwhelming and the thought of finding a good real estate lawyer seems daunting, you’re in luck. There are som...

What does a real estate lawyer do?

A real estate lawyer represents their client’s best interest in all matters related to the sale, purchase and ownership of real estate. They are ex...

What should you look for in a personal injury lawyer?

A personal injury lawyer will advocate for your legal rights if you’ve been hurt in an accident at work or in daily life, have suffered from medica...

What kind of lawyer does wills?

No one likes talking about death, but it’s better than leaving your children or siblings to sort out your estate. A clearly planned will can make t...

How do you find a good immigration lawyer?

Research is key to finding a good immigration lawyer. The immigration process can be overwhelming and complex, so a trustworthy advocate is critica...

How do you find a good lawyer for wills?

Estate planning is an important part of financial planning, so it’s important to find the right attorney to prepare your will. Although most family...

How to find a lawyer for a lawsuit?

Here are a few other sources you can turn to for possible candidates in your search for a lawyer: 1 The director of your state or local chamber of commerce may be a good source of business lawyers. 2 The director of a nonprofit group interested in the subject matter that underlies your lawsuit is sure to know lawyers who work in that area. For example, if your dispute involves trying to stop a major new subdivision, it would make sense to consult an environmental group committed to fighting urban sprawl. 3 A law librarian can help identify authors in your state who have written books or articles on a particular subject -- for example, construction law. 4 A women's or men's support group will probably have a list of well-regarded family and divorce lawyers.

What is Nolo lawyer directory?

Nolo offers a unique lawyer directory that provides a comprehensive profile for each attorney with information that will help you select the right attorney. The profiles tell you about the lawyer's experience, education, and fees, and perhaps most importantly, the lawyer's general philosophy of practicing law.

How much does a lawyer charge an hour?

Lawyers, of course, are prime sources of this information, but if you bought all the needed information at their rates -- $150 to $450 an hour -- you'd quickly empty your bank account.

Do lawyers work with you?

Fortunately, many lawyers will work with you to help you acquire a good working knowledge of the legal principles and procedures you need to deal with your problem at least partly on your own. If you are hoping to represent yourself and use a lawyer only for advice, make sure the lawyer is open to that type of set-up.

What is a lawyer referral service?

Lawyer referral services are another source of information. There is a wide variation in the quality of lawyer referral services, however, even though they are required to be approved by the state bar association. Some lawyer referral services carefully screen attorneys and list only those attorneys with particular qualifications and a certain amount of past experience, while other services will list any attorney in good standing with the state bar who maintains liability insurance. Before you choose a lawyer referral service, ask what its qualifications are for including an attorney and how carefully lawyers are screened.

What can a law librarian do?

A law librarian can help identify authors in your state who have written books or articles on a particular subject -- for example, construction law. A women's or men's support group will probably have a list of well-regarded family and divorce lawyers.

What is a civil lawsuit?

While most cases against federal, city, and state governments are settled out of court, the cases which end up in the court are labeled as civil litigations. A case where a plaintiff alleges that the city has harmed him or federal law or policy can be tried as civil litigation.

What is a dispute between two parties?

These disputes arise when two or more parties sign a contract and one or more of them fail to or deny fulfilling their obligations. The situation arises when the contract is drafted using unclear terms that raise contrasting expectations or when a party fails to meet the obligations due to a lack of resources or funds.

What is a complaint in court?

The process begins after the plaintiff files a pleading in the court. Pleadings are the documents required to be submitted by both the plaintiff and defendant to explain and elaborate on their side of the story. A plaintiff’s pleading is called a complaint in which they highlight the details and wrongdoings of the defendant and the course of action that they want the court to take against the defending party.

What is post discovery?

Post the discovery process, a civil litigation enters the pre-trial phase where negotiations between attorneys begin. Most cases are settled in this phase when both parties reach an agreeable settlement. Out of court settlements are a more preferred form as hearings and trails can cost both parties dearly. In this phase, both the defendant and the plaintiff can use motions to ask the court to deliver judgment or get parts of cases dismissed before it heads to the trial.

What happens to a civil case before it goes to trial?

Before heading to the trial, both the plaintiff and defendant are required to provide the briefs of their discoveries. They can then make opening statements, present witnesses and evidence to prove their argument, and finish with strong closing statements. The judge or jury in-charge then takes note of all the pieces of evidence and witness testimonies to deliver the judgment.

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.

What to do if someone violates your civil rights?

If someone has violated your civil rights by discriminating against you, it may be time to contact a civil rights attorney. Federal and state constitutions and discrimination laws define the extent of your civil rights.

What is civil rights?

A civil rights attorney helps protect the personal rights granted to you by the government. When someone violates those rights, a civil rights attorney can help you make them stop these violations, or repay you for any damage they have done to you.

What is immigration lawyer?

Immigration lawyers help their clients through all phases of the immigration process. Experts on immigration law, they are legally qualified to represent U.S. citizens, permanent residents or undocumented immigrants. Immigration lawyers also provide assistance to visitors here on student, work or travel visas, and can represent clients who may have ...

Do personal injury attorneys get paid?

Personal injury attorneys typically receive a percentage of your settlement (called a contingency fee), so they are paid after the trial or case is complete.

What is pro bono in law?

Pro bono is a Latin term that refers to work a lawyer does for free. All lawyers are encouraged to devote some of their time to volunteer representation of those who otherwise would lack access to justice. These cases are taken "pro bono.".

When did legal aid start?

American legal aid began in the late 19th century as the Legal Aid Society of New York, which sought to protect German immigrants from predatory lenders, unscrupulous landlords, and greedy merchants.

Is the internet secure?

The Internet is not necessarily secure and emails sent through this site could be intercepted or read by third parties. A legal aid or legal services office is a group of lawyers who represent people who cannot afford to pay a lawyer.

What is legal aid?

"Legal aid" refers to a group of lawyers who work exclusively for the clients who qualify for their services—poor clients. These attorneys are expert in matters of landlord-tenant law, consumer law, welfare matters, and other areas of law that many poor people encounter. In keeping with the origins of the concept of legal aid (see "Where Did Legal Aid Come From?"), they are on the lookout for cases that can result in legal reform, not just a victory for a solitary litigant.

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How to Find The Right Lawyer

  • Locating a good lawyer who can efficiently help with your particular problem may not be easy. Don't expect to locate a good lawyer by simply looking in the phone book or reading an advertisement. There's not enough information in these sources to help you make a valid judgment.
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Consider A Specialist

  • Most lawyers specialize in certain areas, and even a so-called "general practitioner" may not know that much about the particular area of your concern. For example, of the almost one million lawyers in America today, probably fewer than 50,000 possess sufficient training and experience in small business law to be of real help to an aspiring entrepreneur. It can pay to work with a law…
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Interview The Prospective Lawyers

  • When you get the names of several good prospects, the next step is to talk to each personally. If you outline your needs in advance, many lawyers will be willing to meet to you for a half-hour or so at no charge so that you can size them up and make an informed decision.
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Further Resources

  • For more tips on choosing and working with a lawyer, see the eBook The Lawsuit Survival Guide: A Client's Companion to Litigation, by Joseph Matthews (Nolo). Before you meet with a lawyer, you might want to learn some common (and perhaps even not-so-common) legal terms. Get Nolo's Plain-English Law Dictionary, available as a free iPhone app(also compatible with iPod touch).
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Types of Civil Litigations

  • An array of disputes between two parties when taken to court fall under the civil litigation category. A payment dispute between a landlord and their tenant, property dispute with neighbors are a few examples of civil litigations. Most civil litigations, however, can be classified under the following categories:
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Contract Disputes

  • These disputes arise when two or more parties sign a contract and one or more of them fail to or deny fulfilling their obligations. The situation arises when the contract is drafted using unclear terms that raise contrasting expectations or when a party fails to meet the obligations due to a lack of resources or funds.
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Property Disputes

  • Civil litigations also include property disputes that involve cases about property ownership, encroachment, and property damages. A common property dispute that finds its way to court is differences between neighbors over alleged extension of boundaries for plantation or building structures.
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Torts

  • One of the most significant categories of civil litigations filed in the US, torts are used by parties who feel they were physically, mentally, or emotionally harmed due to the actions of others. These civil litigations can take multiple forms, such as medical malpractice, personal injury, negligence, and nursing home abuse.
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Class Action Lawsuits

  • Similar to torts, class action lawsuits also allows prosecution of parties that may have harmed a person's physical, mental or emotional well-being. However, in this case, the individual is replaced by a group of people who have all suffered at the hands of a common party or alleged perpetrator. Common cases include distributing a faulty product that caused harm to multiple people or exp…
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Complaints Against The City

  • While most cases against federal, city, and state governments are settled out of court, the cases which end up in the court are labeled as civil litigations. A case where a plaintiff alleges that the city has harmed him or federal law or policy can be tried as civil litigation.
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Steps Involved in Civil Litigation Procedure

  • While every civil litigation is different, they all come to the court by following a common series of steps.
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Pleadings

  • The process begins after the plaintiff files a pleading in the court. Pleadings are the documents required to be submitted by both the plaintiff and defendant to explain and elaborate on their side of the story. A plaintiff’s pleading is called a complaint in which they highlight the details and wrongdoings of the defendant and the course of action that they want the court to take against t…
See more on thelegalhelpers.com

Discovery

  • In this step of the process, both parties invest time and resources to collect evidence to prove their story. Typically, attorneys from both sides come into the picture and handle the proceedings from here. Again, witnesses are brought in, documents are scrutinized, and other steps are taken to examine the situation in question and obtain as many pieces of evidence as possible.
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Pre-Trial

  • Post the discovery process, a civil litigation enters the pre-trial phase, where negotiations between attorneys begin. Most cases are settled in this phase when both parties reach an agreeable settlement. However, out-of-court settlements are a more preferred form as hearings and trials can cost both parties dearly. In this phase, both the defendant and the plaintiff can use motions …
See more on thelegalhelpers.com