How do I choose a Lawyer or Law Firm in my town? And is it okay to ask them how much they will charge?

I have had a couple of lawyers over the past few years. One had very reasonable rates and I was extremely impressed with his services. Unfortunately he left town. Then I got another one who I think charges a lot, but is not all the great either.

I would like to find a new Lawyer or Law Firm to handle my various legal needs, which mostly relate to property management, although I also need things pertaining to wills and estates.

How do I choose a lawyer or a firm? What questions do I ask?

Can I get references about lawyers? Is there a website where a person can read reviews about them?

The problem is that they basically all LOOK the same outwardly. You cannot tell much about the quality of their work by the way they look or they way their offices look. But I guess this would be the case with many professions.

And is it appropriate to ask a lawyer how much he or she charges up front?

Any advice would be helpful.

Thanks!

It is definitely okay to ask a lawyer how much they charge....you are the one paying after all. In my experience it is hit or miss with finding a good attorney. They are good actors...they have to be good actors to be good at what they do. You could ask for referrals but I am not sure how willing they would be to give that info to you....Good luck!

EDIT: I am a member of prepaid legal. I do not work for them so I am not trying to sell you. For about $20.00 a month you can be a member. They have referral attorneys and you get 25% off of their hourly rate. After you finish a case with one of their attorneys you get a survey and rate them. They do keep a rating system and you can complain if they don't treat you fairly and the company will let others know about your complaints. I own a business and joining has probably saved me thousands. www.prepaidlegal.com

Research them through your states bar association. You can see wether they have complaints about their legal practices. And yes it is ok to ask what they charge. Also ask other property managers who they advise you use. Word of mouth and personal references you know are going to be a lot more helpful than a good reference a lawyer may give you to call.