Like other professions, the legal profession has also become highly specialized. For example, a generalist lawyer may not contest your medical injury case, which is a highly specialized area.
The first step to find a good lawyer is to consult someone among your friends who may have tried a lawyer under similar circumstances.
The second alternative is to surf the net. Once you have arrived at a tentative selection of a lawyer, seek an appointment with him. Generally, lawyers offer free consultation at the first interview. Still, it is better to enquire whether you will be charged for your initial meeting. If so, find someone else.
If he offers free first consultation, ask him about his experience in the legal practice, more especially, what percentage of his legal practice is devoted to the type of your case. How would he proceed with your case? How long would it take to bring the case to final settlement? What problems are likely to be encountered while dealing with the case? What type of expertise would he need to resolve the case? For example in a case involving felony, he might require the services of a forensic expert.
Try to assess his level of commitment towards his clients. Will the lawyer devote the time and attention required to handle your case, or, would he pass your case on to his deputy? Ask for the references of his previous clients with their contact numbers. Talk to them and seek their advice on his trustworthiness. Also ask for his track record and success rate in cases like yours.
If you feel satisfied with his answers, engage him and go ahead.