Verifying an elder law attorney’s credentials and reviews is crucial for ensuring quality legal assistance.

Questions to Consider

• What credentials should I look for?
• How can I check their reviews?
• Are there specific organizations I should consult?
• What role does experience play?
• How can I interpret the reviews?

1. Credentials to Look For

• Law Degree from an accredited institution
• State Bar Association Membership
• Specialization in Elder Law certification (such as from the National Elder Law Foundation)
• Membership in professional organizations like the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA)

2. Checking Reviews

• Online platforms like Avvo, LegalMatch, and FindLaw
• Social media reviews on Facebook and LinkedIn
• Local bar association feedback
• Word-of-mouth recommendations

3. Consult Professional Organizations

Organizations you can consult include:

• American Bar Association (ABA)
• National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA)
• State Bar’s Elder Law Section

4. Importance of Experience

Experience matters because:

• Experienced attorneys are often more familiar with local laws and regulations.
• They may have a network of contacts that can benefit your case.
• They likely have handled various situations similar to yours.

5. Interpreting Reviews

When reading reviews, consider:

• Overall ratings: Look for average scores across different platforms.
• Number of reviews: A larger number of reviews can indicate reliability.
• Specific feedback: Look for detailed comments about particular experiences.
• Responding to criticism: Check if the attorney addresses negative reviews.

Statistical Table of Review Sources

Mind Map of the Verification Process

– Verify Credentials – Check law degree – State bar membership – Specialization in elder law – Reviews – Online platforms – Social media – Local bar feedback – Professional Organizations – ABA – NAELA – State Bar Elder Law Section – Experience – Familiarity with local laws – Network of contacts – Review Interpretation – Overall ratings – Specific feedback

Conclusion

Taking the necessary steps to verify both the credentials and reviews of an elder law attorney can significantly impact the quality of legal representation you receive. A thorough assessment of these factors will lead you to a qualified professional capable of effectively addressing your needs.