Finding the right employment lawyer in Missouri requires that you take time to research and choose the professional who will best meet your needs. Whether you’re dealing with a dispute with your employer, filing a claim for unpaid wages, or have some other, more complex employment issue, an experienced employment lawyer will be the best ally you have.
How to Choose the Right Employment Lawyer in Missouri
What’s the Scope of Your Issue?
Are you dealing with a wrongful termination, sexual harassment, or a violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act? Knowing the scope of your legal issue will help you find a lawyer with expertise in that area. Some lawyers may specialize in a specific area of employment law, such as wrongful termination, sexual harassment, or workers’ compensation. If your case falls within a specific niche, it may be smart to work with a lawyer who has experience and expertise in that area.
Check Credentials
Verify the lawyer’s credentials by checking their education, experience, and licensure. Make sure they are a licensed attorney in Missouri or Kansas and have experience handling employment law cases. You can also check their membership in professional organizations such as the Missouri Bar Association or the Kansas Bar Association.
Look at Geographic Location
If your case involves a dispute with an employer located in Missouri or Kansas City, you’ll want to work with a lawyer who is familiar with the local legal situation, which includes having a familiarity with the local laws and regulations as well as experience in the local courts.
Ask About Case Volume
If you’re dealing with a complex or high-profile case in particular, you may want to work with a lawyer who has a substantial caseload and the resources to devote to your case. Look for lawyers who have experience handling high-stakes cases and have a proven track record of success. It may seem counterintuitive to want them to have a good caseload, but that does mean they are good at what they do, in high demand, and staying sharp.
Talk About the Legal Team
Some lawyers work independently, while others have a team of lawyers and support staff. You may want to work with a lawyer who has a team of experts who can help with various aspects of your case, such as legal research, discovery, and litigation. A firm with multiple lawyers will also usually bounce ideas and problems off one another, meaning that your case may have lots of eyes on it.
Consider Their Reputation
A lawyer’s reputation can speak volumes about their credibility and expertise. Look for lawyers who have a strong reputation in the legal community and have received accolades from their peers and clients. You can check online reviews, ask for references, and check with the local bar association to determine a lawyer’s reputation. Look at reviews from clients, as well.
Ask About Availability
Make sure the lawyer you choose is actually available to handle your case. While having a good caseload indicates a lawyer is skilled and active, too heavy of a caseload may mean there will be compromises to your case. Ask about their availability and how quickly they can start working on your case.
Work With Your Budget
Employment lawyers typically work on a contingency fee basis, but they may also charge hourly rates or other fees. Make sure you understand the cost structure and budget for your case. Ask about any potential expenses and how they will be paid.
Assess Their Communication Style
Good communication is crucial when working with a lawyer, as you’ll need to share a lot with them and will want them to make things clear to you. Make sure you feel comfortable communicating with the lawyer and that they are responsive to your questions and concerns. Ask about their approach to communication and how frequently you can expect updates on your case. Ask who specifically will be updating you.
Schedule a Consultation
Many lawyers offer free initial consultations, and you should take advantage of this opportunity to meet with the lawyer, discuss your case, and get a sense of their approach and style. Pay attention to how you feel during the consultation and whether you believe they are the right fit for your case.
Make a Decision
After meeting with several lawyers, make a list of your top candidates and weigh the pros and cons of each. Consider their experience, communication style, fees, and overall personality. Choose the lawyer who you feel most comfortable with and who you are confident can handle your case.
The Holman Schiavone Difference
At Holman Schiavone, LLC, we are dedicated to protecting the rights of employees in Kansas and Missouri. If you have experienced discrimination, harassment, or retaliation in the workplace, you need to know that such conduct is unlawful, and that we are here to help you take action. We understand that employment law cases require skillful guidance, and our experienced attorneys are strong advocates for employee rights. We believe everyone deserves a safe and supportive work environment, free from fear and unjust treatment.
Free Consultation
We offer a free consultation to help you determine if you have a valid case and understand your next steps. During this consultation, we will answer all your questions and, if you decide to proceed with representation, we will act swiftly to protect your rights and help you recover the compensation you deserve.
Personal Attention
We understand that every case is unique and requires a tailored approach. During your free consultation, we will listen carefully to your story, assess the details of your situation, and provide you with a clear understanding of your legal options. Our goal is to empower you with knowledge and confidence, so you can make informed decisions about your future.
A Team of Experienced Legal Professionals
When you choose Holman Schiavone, LLC, you gain access to a team that is relentless in its pursuit of justice. We know how to find and gather all necessary evidence, including emails, timesheets, contracts, and witness statements, to build a strong case on your behalf. Our thorough investigations and strategic approach to documentation ensure that no detail is overlooked.
Fierce Negotiators
Negotiation is a critical component of our strategy. We always strive to resolve disputes amicably and efficiently, seeking solutions that include changes in workplace practices and fair compensation. However, if negotiations fail, our attorneys are fully prepared to take your case to trial. We have a proven track record of standing up against large corporations and achieving favorable outcomes for our clients.
At the Top of Our Game
Employment law is always changing, and staying abreast of the latest legal developments takes dedication. We are committed to continuous learning and adapting our strategies to provide you with the best possible representation. Our dedication to employee rights and our comprehensive legal knowledge make us a formidable force in the courtroom and at the negotiation table.
If you are facing an employment issue in Kansas or Missouri, don’t hesitate to contact us at Holman Schiavone, LLC today. We are here to fight for your rights and help you achieve the justice you deserve. Schedule your free consultation today by calling 816-320-6108.
