Find Top Employee Attorneys in Your Area
Finding the right employee attorney takes research and careful consideration. You need someone who understands employment law and can protect your workplace rights effectively. Here's a complete guide to help you locate and evaluate employment lawyers in your area.
Start Your Search
Begin by gathering referrals and recommendations from trusted sources:
Ask friends, family, and colleagues who have worked with employment attorneys
Contact your state or local bar association for referrals
Use legal directories and online review sites
Check employment law organizations in your region
Evaluate Their Experience
Look for attorneys who focus specifically on employment law. They should have experience handling cases similar to yours. Key areas of expertise include:
Wrongful termination
Workplace discrimination
Sexual harassment
Wage and hour disputes
Employment contracts
Workplace safety violations
Retaliation claims
Check Their Credentials
Verify the attorney's qualifications before moving forward:
Active license to practice in your state
Good standing with the state bar association
Board certifications in employment law (if available in your state)
Membership in employment law organizations
Track record of successful cases
Consider Location and Accessibility
Choose an attorney whose office location works for you. Think about:
Distance from your home or workplace
Parking and public transit options
Office hours that fit your schedule
Virtual meeting capabilities
Schedule Initial Consultations
Most employment attorneys offer free or low-cost initial consultations. Use these meetings to:
Discuss your case specifics
Ask about their experience with similar cases
Learn about their approach and strategy
Understand their communication style
Get a sense of their personality and working style
Ask the Right Questions
During consultations, ask these key questions:
How many employment cases do you handle annually?
What percentage of your practice focuses on employment law?
Who will handle my case - you or other attorneys?
How do you communicate with clients?
What is your fee structure?
What is the typical timeline for cases like mine?
Understand the Costs
Employment attorneys typically use these fee structures:
Contingency fees (percentage of settlement)
Hourly rates
Flat fees for specific services
Hybrid arrangements
Get clear information about:
Initial consultation fees
Retainer requirements
Payment schedules
Additional costs (filing fees, expert witnesses)
Review Their Resources
A good employment attorney should have:
Support staff to handle administrative tasks
Access to expert witnesses
Research capabilities
Technology for case management
Network of professional contacts
Consider Their Approach
Different attorneys have different styles. Some focus on:
Aggressive litigation
Negotiation and settlement
Alternative dispute resolution
Preventive counseling
Choose someone whose approach aligns with your goals.
Trust Your Instincts
Beyond credentials and experience, consider:
How comfortable you feel with the attorney
Their listening skills and empathy
Their explanation of legal concepts
Their realistic assessment of your case
Their commitment to your interests
Make Your Decision
After gathering information and meeting with potential attorneys:
Compare their qualifications and approaches
Review fee structures and payment terms
Consider convenience and accessibility
Evaluate their communication style
Trust your judgment about fit
As discussed in Professional Etiquette — The Edge Blog — Crescent Edge Consulting, maintaining professional relationships is key to successful legal representation. Take time to find an attorney who meets your needs and makes you feel confident about your case.
Remember that employment law cases often involve complex issues and emotions. The right attorney will guide you through the process while protecting your rights and interests. Take time to research and evaluate your options before making this important decision.
