HOW TO SELECT
AN ATTORNEY

Obtain Suggestions

Selecting an attorney is a very important process. You may wish to obtain suggestions from friends.  However, keep in mind that the attorney that handled your friend's divorce may know nothing at all about contract law.

Another good source is Martindale-Hubbell which rates attorneys.    Martindale-Hubbell is the authoritative resource for information on the worldwide legal profession which is relied upon by Corporations and other attorneys looking for assistance from other lawyers.  With a history spanning more than 135 years, the Martindale-Hubbell Legal Network is currently powered by a database of over one million lawyers and law firms in 160 countries.  

The Law Offices of John A. Sullivan is proud to have received a Peer Review Rating from Martindale-Hubbell of , the highest rating possible.

To see Mr. Sullivan's rating click here to go to his listing in Martindale-Hubbell.  

Check With the State Bar to Verify the Attorney is in Good Standing

It is amazing how many people practice law when they have been suspended or have a discipline action pending against them by the State Bar.  Check the State Bar's Internet Site for Member Records to be sure the person is an attorney, is still "Active" and if the attorney has a record of  discipline.  The State Bar has other information on the Internet on selecting an attorney.

 

Ask for a Free Consultation

Most attorneys are more than happy to meet with you at no charge for half an hour to discuss your matter and why they are qualified to represent you.  Note that this is not a "free lunch." Do not expect the attorney to give you free advice on how to handle the matter yourself, this is a get acquainted session not free legal advice.  After all, you would not expect to take your car into the dealer's repair shop and expect them to give you a list of problems, instructions on how to repair them and a list of parts without charging you.  Do not be afraid to ask detailed questions about the attorney's background, experience, fees and your expectations.  This is your opportunity to find out if you will be comfortable working with the attorney.

 

Always Get a Written Contract with the Attorney and Read It

You should insist on a written contract with an attorney.  It should spell out the nature of the work to be undertaken, the fee to be charged and how it is arrived at and whether the attorney carries Legal Malpractice Insurance.  If the attorney does not carry such insurance, you might want to reconsider.  The Law Offices of John A. Sullivan do carry Legal Malpractice Insurance.

 

The Law Offices of John A. Sullivan represents clients throughout the State of California.  

If you are looking for an attorney or lawyer in any of categories listed on the Fields of Expertise page and the matter is located in the State of California, and in particular any of the following communities, The Law Offices of John A. Sullivan is the law office for you:

Amador County:  Amador City, Jackson, Ione,  Pine Grove, Pioneer, Plymouth, Sutter Creek or Volcano.  

Calaveras County:  Angel's Camp, Arnold, Copperopolls, Mokelumne Hill, Mountain Ranch, Murphys, San Andreas, Tamarack or West Point.

El Dorado County:    Cameron Park, El Dorado Hills, Diamond Springs, Placerville, Pollack Pines.

Sacramento County:  Citrus Heights, Elk Grove, Folsom, Galt, Isleton, Rancho Cordova or Sacramento.

San Joaquin County:  Escalon, Lathrop, Lodi, Manteca, Ripon, Stockton or Tracy.