I Think I Need a Lawyer- What are My Next Steps?
How to Find and Work with a Lawyer
Choosing a Lawyer
Choosing a lawyer is like selecting any other professional—do your research. Review credentials, ask about fees up front, and make sure hiring a lawyer is the right decision for your situation. For example, it may not make financial sense to spend $500 in legal fees to recover a $100 debt.
Start by identifying the nature of your legal issue. Then, look for an attorney experienced in that area. General practice lawyers handle a range of issues and may refer you to someone with more specialized experience if needed.
Click on the link below to better understand what to expect when working with an attorney, including your rights, your responsibilities, and how to foster a professional and respectful client-lawyer relationship
Clients' Rights and Responsibilities (English)
Clients' Rights and Responsibilities (Spanish)
If you need help finding a lawyer, contact the Rhode Island Bar Association’s Lawyer Referral Service:
📞 (401) 421-7799 | Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Or click here to get started online:
Lawyer Referral Service Request
Ways to Find a Lawyer
1. Personal Referrals: Ask family, friends, or trusted professionals for recommendations.
2. Lawyer Referral Service (LRS): Our LRS offers up to a free 30-minute consult with a qualified attorney. If further services are needed, the decision to continue is up to you.
📞 (401) 421-7799 | ✉️ Online Request
Reduced-fee services are available to those who qualify under federal income guidelines.
Special Programs
Lawyer Referral Service for the Elderly
For Rhode Islanders aged 60 or older. Includes free consultations and potential pro bono help for qualifying clients.
📞 (401) 521-5040 | ✉️ eking@ribar.com
Volunteer Lawyer Program (VLP)
Provides free legal help to low-income Rhode Islanders in certain areas of law.
📞 (401) 421-7758 | ✉️ jellis@ribar.com
Armed Forces Legal Services Project
Free civil legal help for military service members and their families.
📞 (401) 421-7799 | ✉️ eking@ribar.com
Lawyers for the Arts
Legal help for artists and arts organizations. Reduced-fee or pro bono services may be available.
📞 (401) 421-7799 | ✉️ jellis@ribar.com
Understanding Legal Fees
You can discuss fees with your lawyer at any time. Common fee arrangements include:
- Retainer – An advance payment for ongoing legal services. Any unused portion must be refunded in Rhode Island.
- Contingent Fee – The lawyer is paid a percentage of the amount recovered, typically in personal injury cases. No recovery means no fee, but clients may still owe court costs.
- Specific Job – A flat fee for a defined service, such as drafting a will or handling a real estate transaction.
- Hourly Rate – A set rate charged for each hour of work. Ask for an estimate of total hours.
Fee structures may vary, and some lawyers use a combination. Courts may also set fees in certain cases. Always ask for a written estimate and clarification of what is included.
Working with Your Lawyer
Once you’ve chosen a lawyer, there are simple steps you can take to help your case and make the most of the legal services provided:
- Be honest and thorough. Share all relevant facts, even if they seem unfavorable. Your lawyer needs accurate information to give sound advice.
- Ask for a full analysis. A good lawyer will explain both the strengths and weaknesses of your case.
- Trust their expertise. If you don’t have confidence in their advice, it may be time to reevaluate your choice.
- Be patient. Legal issues can be complex and may not have quick or simple answers.
- Understand what you sign. Ask pertinent questions about legal terms when particular to your case.
- Keep your lawyer updated. New developments could affect your case.
- Communicate wisely. Be respectful of your lawyer’s time and avoid unnecessary calls or emails.
- Stay informed. Ask for updates and request copies of documents prepared on your behalf.
- Don’t expect guarantees. No lawyer can promise a specific outcome.
- Never sign anything you don’t understand. Ask for clarification before signing any document.
What If There's a Problem?
Concerns about your lawyer? Start by discussing your concerns directly. You may also change lawyers at any time, though the original lawyer may still be entitled to fees for work performed.
Fee dispute?
Contact the Rhode Island Bar Association’s Fee Arbitration Program:
📞 (401) 421-5740 | Learn More
Suspect unethical conduct?
File a complaint with the Rhode Island Supreme Court Disciplinary Counsel:
📞 (401) 823-5710 | Learn more
Small Claims Court
Small claims court allows individuals to resolve minor disputes quickly and affordably, usually for claims up to $5,000. Filing costs are low, but you should first try other solutions like contacting the person or business directly or working with the Better Business Bureau.