Finding a good attorney and law firm(s) can be a frustrating
experience. It is probably best to do some research yourself
and to consult several sources in your search.
One way to start is to ask an attorney that you trust
for a reference to a lawyer experienced and knowledgeable in the
field. Ask the referring lawyer to keep in mind the amount of
attorney time and financial resources that will be needed to succeed,
as well as the length of time involved. When seeking
referrals, ask for attorneys who have successful experience in employment law
and in litigation.
Another method is to
contact groups and individuals who have experience with employment
attorneys, such as GAP, Taxpayers Against Fraud (TAF),
National Whistleblower Center, National Employment Lawyers
Association (or their state affiliate), or other nonprofit groups
for resources for finding qualified lawyers in your area, and
their expertise. (Many of these groups have websites, with their
web addresses listed in the "Helpful Links" section of this
website.)
Also, traditional sources such as the local bar association or
relevant committees of the American Bar Association (ABA), American
Trial Lawyers Association (ATLA), or National Employment Lawyers
Association (NELA), can help identify respected specialists or, at
least, those who claim expertise.
Also available on line and in your local
public library should have a copy of the comprehensive lawyer's directory,
known as "Martindale-Hubbell." The directory also will list attorneys by
state and city and may give you some idea of the types of cases
and number of attorneys each firm has. You can check a
lawyer’s rated expertise and character in Martindale-Hubbell at
your local library—and on line.
Normally, you will want an attorney or law firm rated "AV."
In the Martindale Hubbell system, the A, B, or C rating refers to
legal ability, A being the highest. The "V" rating indicates
that other lawyers have rated the attorney as having high legal
ethics.
And, many law firms have websites that allow you to inform
yourself about particular lawyers or law firms before you ever
call or contact them.
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