How to Find the Best Lawyer for Your Unique Needs
December 22, 2022

When you’re facing a legal issue, it’s a good idea to consult with an attorney experienced in your specific area of need. But how do you know that a particular attorney is right for you? 


The attorney-client relationship is an important one, and choosing a lawyer who is knowledgeable in your area, and someone you trust and with whom you feel comfortable, can literally make or break your case. This is especially true if your legal problem is complex or involves a substantial amount of money.


Tips and Tools for Choosing the Right Attorney the First Time


A competent and savvy lawyer can provide strategic advice to help you solve your legal issue in the quickest, most effective, and least expensive manner possible. Here’s how to find the best lawyer for your unique needs. 


Ask friends, colleagues, and loved ones for personal referrals. 


If you know someone who has faced a similar legal issue to the one you’re facing now, they can be a wonderful referral source. This can come in the form of a friend, loved one, or colleague, or you can ask for referrals from an associated support group, such as a women’s support group, divorce group, or Alcoholics Anonymous. 


If your legal need involves a business matter, you can ask for referrals from business connections and resources, such as the Small Business Association (SBA), or your accountant, real estate agent, or insurance broker, for example. 


Conduct online and local research. 


Google, Avvo, Facebook, your state or local chamber of commerce, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB) offer personal reviews from clients, disciplinary records, bar data, and peer endorsements. 


Interview prospective candidates. 


Once you’ve narrowed it down to two or three potential lawyers, you should interview each to ensure that you have a good working chemistry. Just because your friend or colleague recommends someone, doesn’t mean that you will also find this particular attorney to be a good fit. 


During an interview, you can determine if you find the attorney to be trustworthy and competent, if communication flows easily, and if you have good working chemistry. You can also inquire about their experience with cases similar to yours.


Questions to Ask an Attorney During the Consultation


The questions you ask during your initial consultation will vary based on your particular situation, but the following questions apply to most legal matters. 


  • How long have you been practicing law? 


  • What kind of experience do you have with cases similar to mine? 


  • What strategies are you considering for my case? 


  • What are the possible outcomes of my case? 


  • What are the risks if my case fails? 


  • What are the odds my case can be settled out of court?


  • What are your fees, and how much do you think this will end up costing me? 


  • Will you be my main point of contact, or will I be communicating with other attorneys and staff? 


  • How long should I expect to wait for responses to questions? Do you return all calls and emails within 24 hours? 


Contact a Middlebury Vermont Lawyer Today


If you are facing a legal matter, the skilled attorneys at Deppman Law PLC can help. Contact Benj and Lesley Deppman today for a confidential consultation and to learn more.

Protecting Your Small Business from Legal Disputes Before They Start

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Running a small business involves balancing opportunity and risk. While disputes can’t always be avoided, many legal problems can be prevented with proactive planning and clear communication. Here are several ways small business owners can reduce legal risk before issues arise. Choose the Right Business Structure The legal structure of your business affects liability, taxes, and operations. Forming the right entity can help protect personal assets and clarify ownership responsibilities from the outset. Use Clear, Written Agreements Handshake deals and informal arrangements often lead to misunderstandings. Well-drafted contracts with customers, vendors, and partners help set expectations and reduce disputes over payment, performance, deliverables, or scope of work. Review Commercial Leases Carefully Commercial leases often contain long-term obligations and hidden costs. Understanding lease terms before signing can prevent costly surprises and future conflicts with landlords. Address Employment Issues Early Clear policies, proper classification of workers, and consistent practices can help prevent disputes with employees or contractors. Early legal guidance can help ensure compliance and reduce exposure. Plan for Disagreements Even healthy businesses encounter conflict. Including dispute resolution provisions in contracts and addressing issues promptly can help resolve problems before they escalate into litigation. Proactive legal planning isn’t about expecting failure—it’s about building a strong foundation that allows your business to operate with confidence and flexibility. Call Deppman Law PLC If you own or are starting a small business and want to reduce legal risk before problems arise, Deppman Law PLC can help. We work with Vermont business owners to put practical safeguards in place and address issues early. Contact Deppman Law PLC to schedule a consultation and protect your business’s future.

When Should You Talk to a Lawyer? Common Situations Where Early Advice Matters

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People frequently wait to contact a lawyer until a problem feels urgent or unavoidable. By that point, costs may be higher and stress levels are often elevated. In many situations, speaking with a lawyer early can help prevent small issues from becoming much larger ones. Here are some common scenarios where early legal advice can make a meaningful difference. Before Signing a Contract Whether it’s a lease, business agreement, vendor contract, or settlement document, contracts carry long-term consequences. A quick review before signing can help identify unclear terms, unexpected obligations, or risks you may not have noticed. During Major Life Changes Events like marriage, divorce, having children, or buying property often trigger legal considerations. Early guidance can help ensure important steps—such as updating estate plans or addressing property rights—aren’t overlooked. When Starting or Growing a Business Choosing the right business structure, drafting agreements, and understanding liability risks are much easier at the beginning than after problems arise. Early legal planning can protect both personal and business assets. If a Dispute Is Developing If tensions are rising with a tenant, business partner, neighbor, or family member, early advice can help you understand your rights and avoid actions that could escalate the situation or weaken your position. After an Injury or Property Incident Whether you were injured or someone was hurt on your property, early legal input can help preserve important information and guide next steps before statements are made or deadlines are missed. Talking to a lawyer doesn’t mean you’re headed for court. In many cases, it’s about understanding your options, clarifying risks, and making informed decisions before a situation becomes more complicated. Call Deppman Law PLC If you’re facing a legal question or simply wondering whether you should speak with an attorney, Deppman Law PLC is here to help. We offer practical guidance designed to address issues early and thoughtfully. Contact Deppman Law PLC to schedule a consultation and get clear answers before problems grow.