Lawyers are permitted to practise in all areas of law, but in reality, every lawyer has areas of law in which he or she is more experienced and comfortable. How do you find the lawyer who is right for you?

First of all, it may be useful to ask people you trust for a referral. If someone from your family, a friend, or a business acquaintance is sufficiently pleased with their lawyer to recommend him or her to you, then that lawyer will merit consideration. However, don't just accept the judgement of others. You should certainly contact that lawyer directly to form your own opinion.

This process in itself may be a valuable learning experience. Ask yourself: when you phone the lawyer to initiate contact, do you get through to the lawyer, or are you "screened off" by the staff? Of course at the time you call, the lawyer may be out of the office or meeting with another client. If so, then you should leave a message requesting a call back. Does the lawyer return your call, and if so how soon? If not for a day or two, then you must consider how promptly you will be able to get a response if you need urgent legal advice in the future.