Hiring an attorney requires a combination of research and knowledge of your needs.

At some point in our lives, we all need an attorney, whether it’s to write a will, negotiate a business transaction, or close on a new home. Getting the right attorney requires that you determine your precise legal needs before meeting with someone. Be your own best advocate and research attorneys ahead of time with the American Bar Association. It is helpful to be familiar with the main ways in which attorneys bill: flat fee, per diem, Pro bono and on contingency (only if you win your case).

This simple checklist can help you get the right legal help for you:

Determine your needs. There are some legal tasks you can perform on your own, like drafting a simple will. DIY resources are available on sites like Nolo.com and the American Bar Association. For more complicated matters, like real estate closings, trusts and estates you will want a professional to work with you.

Once you’ve determined what kind of help you need, start searching for the right attorney to assist you. While there are generalists, many attorneys specialize in one area of the law, such as adoption, divorce, or commercial transactions.

Shop around. Ask friends, family, and colleagues for referrals. To check if a recommended attorney is a member of the bar in good standing consult the state’s bar website and enters the lawyer’s name into their attorney search. Local bar associations offer a free attorney referral service. They do not vouch for the quality of their members’ legal services but they will handle any complaints that you may have.

Be inquisitive. Before hiring an attorney, arrange a meeting or telephone call to discuss your expectations and determine legal fees. Personality and communication count, do not work with anyone who brushes you off or otherwise doesn’t seem like a good fit.

Be prepared. Before meeting with your lawyer gather all necessary paperwork. See our guide for setting up a financial recordkeeping system to help keep your records organized.

Understand legal billing. How much and how often you’ll pay for legal services depends upon the nature of the work. If your case is ongoing or complex, don’t forget to request monthly itemized bills. Here’s a rundown of some of the basic ways an attorney might charge for his or her services:

THE BOTTOM LINE: Hiring an attorney can be a simple process, but it requires some legwork to ensure it goes smoothly. Make sure the money you invest is well spent by finding a knowledgeable professional you can trust.