Finding the right lawyer for you

Today, an article on law.com addressed lawyer ratings systems and their usefullness to consumers.  Martindale-Hubbell and (its sister site lawyers.com) has long been the primary ratings system, but only list attorneys who have paid to be included, which many solos and small firms can't afford.  There is also a relatively newer system called Avvo, which uses client ratings.  In the ten states which Avvo covers (which does NOT include Maryland), attorneys can be listed whether they have "signed up" or not, however attorneys can add advertising material for a fee.  Are these companies providing helpful information for consumers?  My answer would be "Not much."  I have seen lawyers rated highly in the Martindale-Hubbell system who I would definitely not refer clients to, and there are many fine attorneys who are not listed simply because the fees are too high.  The most important considering in choosing a lawyer is whether you feel comfortable with the person's abilities and personality.  If you need an attorney, for first steps consider calling the bar association referral line in your jurisdiction, asking a friend for a referral, or asking an attorney you know...attorneys often know other attorneys in different jurisdictions and different practice areas.  For example, your cousin's  divorce attorney in California just may know the right bankruptcy attorney for you in New York!