Start with four non-negotiables
Confirm that the firm handles the relevant type of matter, serves the jurisdiction, can speak before any urgent deadline, and has no conflict that prevents a review. A directory category or nearby address does not establish any of these points.
Use the same questions for every firm
Ask who would be responsible for the work, how updates are delivered, what decisions require your approval, and how the firm approaches costs. Consistent questions make comparisons more useful than impressions alone.
Score what you can actually verify
Use simple columns: practice fit, jurisdiction, responsible lawyer, communication plan, fee explanation, expense policy, and next step. Leave a field blank when a firm has not answered it.
Separate fit from promised outcomes
A careful lawyer may explain uncertainty and decline to predict a result. Treat guarantees, unexplained superlatives, or pressure to sign immediately as reasons to ask more questions—not as evidence of likely success.
Record the decision
Write down why you chose a firm, what remains unanswered, and which documents you signed. Keep the signed agreement and any intake instructions where you can find them.