6 Signs of a Good Attorney

Choosing the right attorney can feel overwhelming – especially when you’re already under stress. Whether you’ve been injured, wronged, or find yourself in a complicated legal situation, the stakes are high. You want someone who isn’t just good at practicing law – you want someone who genuinely cares about your case and your future.

Not every attorney fits that description. Some are just going through the motions. Others are deeply committed to helping clients rebuild their lives. So how can you tell the difference? Here are six clear signs that you’ve found an attorney who’s not only skilled but truly invested in your success.

They Listen First, Talk Second

A good attorney knows that before they can represent you, they need to understand you.

So, when you meet with them, make sure they’re focused on listening – not interrupting you, not jumping to conclusions, and not treating your story like just another case file. They should ask thoughtful questions and let you explain your concerns before ever trying to give advice.

If an attorney talks more than they listen, or if they seem to have all the answers before you even finish telling your story, that’s a major red flag. You deserve someone who sees you as a person, not a transaction.

They Communicate Clearly and Often

You shouldn’t have to chase down your attorney to get updates or answers. A good attorney knows that clear, regular communication builds trust and keeps you from feeling left in the dark.

From the start, they should set expectations about how and when they’ll update you, what your role will be, and what the next steps are. And when you reach out with questions, they should respond promptly.

If they leave you guessing about deadlines, decisions, or basic information, you’ll struggle to feel confident in the process. Great lawyers make communication a priority because they know it’s a cornerstone of good representation.

They’re Honest About Your Case

A good attorney isn’t just there to hype you up. (Though, that is nice!) They’re there to give you the truth, even when it’s hard to hear.

If you’ve got a strong case, they’ll explain why and how they plan to build it. If there are challenges, they’ll walk you through them without sugarcoating or making unrealistic promises.

You don’t want an attorney who tells you what you want to hear just to get your signature on a contract. You want one who’s upfront, even if it means acknowledging that a settlement might take time or that a trial could be risky. Remember this important truth: Honesty at the start saves you from bigger disappointments later.

They Show Compassion

Legal knowledge and expertise are obviously an important part of the job description, but the best attorneys understand people. They realize that behind every case is someone whose life has been turned upside down.

As Thomas Archer of Mette Attorneys at Law explains, “I understand that a personal injury can be emotionally and financially stressful, and that is why we work on a contingency basis, meaning you won’t pay attorney fees unless a settlement or judgment is awarded on your behalf.”

That kind of approach shows real compassion. In other words, it’s not just about winning cases. At the end of the day, it’s also about making sure you can pursue justice without adding financial stress to an already difficult situation.

They Have a Track Record of Results

Caring is important, but so is winning. A good attorney should be able to show you a history of successful outcomes – whether through settlements, trial victories, or favorable negotiations.

Ask about their experience with cases like yours:

Have they handled similar claims?
What were the results?
How do they measure success for their clients?

You want someone who knows how to navigate the system, negotiate with insurance companies, work with experts, and, if necessary, take your case to court. Past performance doesn’t guarantee future results, but it’s a strong indicator that your attorney knows how to deliver when it matters most.

They Make You Feel Like a Partner (Not a Number)

Throughout your case, you should feel like your attorney is working with you, not just for you. They should respect your input, explain your options clearly, and involve you in important decisions.

You’re ultimately choosing someone to represent your interests, your voice, and your future. A good attorney will treat that responsibility with the seriousness it deserves.

If you feel rushed, brushed off, or like you’re just one of many cases they’re juggling, it’s a bad sign. The right attorney will make you feel valued. They’ll see you as a respected part of the process and will involve you when appropriate.

Finding the Best Attorney for Your Situation

When you find an attorney who checks all of the right boxes, you’re gaining an ally who will fight for you and stand by you throughout the twists and turns of your case. Make sure you take the time to find someone who actually cares about you and your outcome. That’s the mark of a great attorney.