Would You Trust a TV-Advertised Attorney for Your Legal Needs?

Introduction

While some individuals may find it tempting to go with a lawyer who advertises their services on television, a seasoned professional warns against relying on such advertisements for serious legal issues. This article will explore the risks and considerations of hiring a lawyer from a TV ad.

Choosing an Attorney for Specific Legal Needs

Throughout my years in practice, I have occasionally been involved in lawsuits. In those instances, where I was not representing myself, I always hired a specialist attorney rather than one who advertised on TV. This was because I wanted an objective view of the problem, and I trusted the expertise of a specialist in the matter at hand.

For my personal business issues and tax matters, I relied on a CPA and a personal lawyer, respectively. However, my personal lawyer was not a litigator, and I did not need his services for that purpose. Instead, he helped me understand the legal requirements, such as filling out forms for state sales taxes and conducting due diligence before making a purchase. These are the kind of tasks that I would expect my clients to handle as well.

Risks of TV-Advertised Attorneys

There are several reasons to be wary of hiring an attorney who advertises their services on TV. Firstly, these attorneys often focus on handling minor cases in consumer-related areas, such as simple bankruptcies, divorces, or personal injury matters. While such cases might seem trivial, they can still be complex and affect your life significantly.

Additionally, television advertisements and listings in the phone book often do not provide a comprehensive view of an attorney's experience and background. Many of these attorneys may be less experienced, or their experience may be limited to simple cases. Furthermore, some of these lawyers may have unresolved complaints or grievances against them, which can be challenging to verify and assess without thorough research.

Steps to Take When Selecting a Legal Representative

To find a reliable and competent attorney, you should invest time in researching local attorneys. The state's bar association is a valuable resource for this purpose. You can obtain a list of qualified attorneys who practice in your area and are close to your location. Once you have a list, you should set up initial consultations, which typically do not have a fee, to discuss your legal needs.

During these consultations, it is essential to question the attorney thoroughly and observe their demeanor and responses. Pay attention to whether they are comfortable answering your questions, providing thorough and detailed responses, and whether they refer to external resources frequently. Furthermore, ensure that the named attorney, not a clerk, takes the meeting to guarantee personalized attention and quality service.

The state bar can also provide information on any disciplinary actions against the attorney in the past or any currently pending cases. This additional layer of due diligence can help you make an informed decision and avoid potential complications down the line.

Conclusion

While it may be more convenient to respond to a TV ad, it is important to recognize that many legal issues can significantly impact your life. Bankruptcy and divorce, for instance, can affect everything from your finances to your personal relationships. Therefore, it is crucial to spend the time and effort to find a competent, experienced attorney who can provide personalized and quality legal representation.

By following the steps outlined above, you can make an informed decision and ensure that you are working with a trustworthy and qualified legal professional who can effectively address your needs.