When you find yourself in need of legal counsel, you may wonder about the best strategy to use in finding a lawyer to best suit your needs.

http://jdfinder.com is a free legal matching service in California. It’s a quick and easy way to access reliable and experienced lawyers in your area who can assist you. We send you the names of attorneys right in your area who are interested in taking on your case. You choose and hire the best match for you. There is no obligation and no fee for the matching service.

• Consult with your family, friends, neighbors and colleagues. Ask for referrals of attorneys they found to be reliable. Ask people you trust and respect for their experience with a mutual attorney you know.
• If you rather not broadcast your legal concerns, try hunting on your own. Contact the local Bar Association and ask for referrals.
• Use the internet. Find ratings on lawyers at http://www.martindale.com. They rate lawyers on a scale of A, B and C. The ratings are done by other lawyers but can be used in investigating your choices.

Once you have made a choice, you will meet with the attorney. At your first meeting, be ready to　ask a lot of questions regarding both your particular matter and the lawyer's practice.　Ask about the results of similar cases represented. Ask about all the fees. What and how much is charged? Is every phone call on your bill? Every e-mail? Does the lawyer take credit cards? If it is contingency arrangement, you will want to know the likelihood of recovery (remember, there are no guarantees in the law). When you have gathered all the necessary information you will be ready to hire your lawyer.

Some attorneys may have you sign a letter of engagement. This is a contract between you and the hired counsel. You can always ask for this so everything will be documented for you to understand and reference.

Remember Lawyers are out there to help you! Be a careful consumer and you will find the attorney best suited for your needs.