Lawyer vetting checklist

• I have confirmed the lawyer is licensed in the state where my matter is.
• I have checked the official source for any public discipline.
• I have written a short summary of my situation and the key dates.
• I have gathered the documents the lawyer is likely to need.
• I have written down the questions I want to ask every lawyer.
• I know about any deadline that affects my matter, and I have mentioned it when booking.

• I asked about experience with matters like mine.
• I asked who would do the day-to-day work.
• I asked how and how often we would communicate.
• I asked how the fees work and what the retainer covers.
• I asked what expenses might be billed separately.
• I asked what the main options and risks are.
• I wrote down the answers, and what is still unclear.

• I compared the lawyers on the same points.
• I have the fee arrangement in writing.
• I have read the engagement agreement and asked about anything unclear.
• I know what happens to any unused retainer if the representation ends.
• I know who to contact with questions, and how.

Fill in one column per lawyer. A few words per box is enough.

Scroll the table sideways to see every column.

This record helps you compare. It is not a score, and it does not tell you which lawyer to hire.