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How to Find a Lawyer

Not sure where to start? Learn how to find a lawyer, check their qualifications, understand their fees, and choose the right attorney for your legal matter.

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ARTICLE SUMMARY

If you've never hired a lawyer before, figuring out where to start can feel like a big task. Maybe you're going through a divorce, starting a business, or facing a legal problem you didn't see coming. Whatever brought you here, finding the right attorney comes down to a few simple steps. This guide walks you through each one, from figuring out what kind of help you need to making the hire.

Different lawyers focus on different areas of law, like family law, criminal law, and business law. Once you know what you need and do a little research, you'll be in a good position to find an attorney who can help, and to feel more at ease knowing you have the right support.

Why you might need a lawyer

A lawyer can help protect your rights, explain your options, and help you avoid costly mistakes. People often turn to lawyers for personal legal matters, like getting divorced, writing a will, or adopting a child. Lawyers also help businesses with things like forming a company or drafting contracts. And if you're accused of a crime or hurt in an accident, an attorney can defend your rights and help make sure you're treated fairly.

How to find a lawyer on your own

1. Figure out what type of lawyer you need

Start by identifying the area of law your legal matter falls under, such as family law, criminal law, or business law. Then ask yourself: What exactly do you want to get done, and what kind of experience does an attorney need to help you with it?

2. Research potential lawyers

Next, it's time to start looking. A few good places to begin:

  • Online directories: Search for lawyers in your area by practice area.
  • Your state or local bar association: They can often provide a list of licensed attorneys near you.
  • Word of mouth: Friends and family can be a great source of recommendations.

3. Check qualifications

Make sure the attorney has experience in the area of law you need. Read reviews or testimonials from past clients, and confirm there are no past issues with their practice. It's also worth asking whether they're taking new cases.

4. Understand their fees

Before you hire an attorney, find out how they charge so there are no surprises later. Here are some common fee structures:

Table with horizontally scrollable content
Type of fee
Hourly rate
Flat fee
Contingency fee
Retainer fee
How it works
You pay for each hour the attorney works on your case. This is common for ongoing work or cases that are hard to predict.
You pay a set price for a specific service, like drafting a contract.
The attorney gets paid only if you win your case.
You make an upfront payment to secure the attorney's services.

5. Schedule a consultation

A consultation is your chance to explain your legal matter and hear how the attorney might approach it. Come prepared with questions about their experience, their fees, and how they'd handle your case. This first meeting matters because it's when you decide whether they're the right fit for you, and when they decide whether to take your case. Some options, like a Rocket Legal+ membership, include a short call with an attorney at no extra cost.

6. Hire the lawyer

Choose an attorney you feel comfortable with and who comes across as professional: punctual, organized, and respectful. Ideally, they've handled cases like yours before. Double-check that their fees fit your budget. If they check all the boxes, you're ready to get started.

Tips for working with your lawyer

  • Be honest. Share all relevant information, even if it seems unfavorable.
  • Stay organized. Keep your paperwork and messages in one place.
  • Ask questions. If something is unclear, ask your attorney to explain it.
  • Talk about fees upfront. Make sure you understand all the costs involved.

Finding the right lawyer doesn't have to be overwhelming. Research carefully, ask good questions, and choose someone you trust to represent your interests.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

  • Figure out what type of lawyer you need. Different lawyers handle different kinds of legal matters, like family law, criminal charges, or business issues.
  • Do your research. Look up lawyers online, ask people you trust for recommendations, or contact your local bar association.
  • Check their qualifications. Make sure the attorney has experience with cases like yours and good reviews from past clients.
  • Understand their fees. Attorneys might charge by the hour, charge a flat fee, or get paid only if you win your case.
  • Meet before you hire. A consultation helps you decide whether the attorney is a good fit and whether their fees work for you.
Pro Reviewed
Published on 11/06/2026
Reviewed on 11/06/2026
Reviewed by attorneys

At Rocket Lawyer, we follow a rigorous editorial policy to ensure every article is helpful, clear, and as accurate and up-to-date as possible. This page was created, edited and reviewed by trained editorial staff who specialize in translating complex legal topics into plain language, then reviewed by experienced attorneys to ensure legal accuracy.

Please note: This page offers general legal information, but not legal advice tailored for your specific legal situation. Rocket Lawyer Incorporated isn't a law firm or a substitute for one. For further information on this topic, you can Ask an Attorney.

Laura Bojart
Laura Bojart
Editorial Researcher and Copywriter

Laura Bojart is an SEO copywriter and editor at Rocket Lawyer. She researches legal and business topics and translates complex ideas into clear, practical content for everyday readers. With her background in journalism and endless curiosity, she approaches each subject by asking the questions readers are likely to have first, making legal information approachable and easy to understand even to those with no legal background.

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