When you need an attorney, you want to make sure you get the very best. Like any professional you might call in an emergency, second best will not do. The process of choosing a Maryland law firm can be difficult, even stressful. Follow this advice to make the process a little easier.

Experience is very important. If you are involved in a complicated divorce, you want to be sure your attorney is capable of giving you professional assistance. Ask the attorney what experience he has in handling cases similar to yours. A lawyer who regularly drafts wills may not be the one you need to handle your wrongful termination lawsuit.

It is not possible for an attorney to guarantee that you will win your case, but there are many other things you want to agree on in writing before work begins. Talk about your expectations. Do you want constant updates? Tell the attorney what information you have collected so far to support your case. Discuss your options and agree on an approach that works well for both of you.

Costs should be settled before work begins. Get an explanation in writing about the firm's charges; the American Bar Association recommends their members give these to customers when they agree to represent them. State ethics require that attorneys charge reasonable fees.

Do you understand what you will be charged for and how much? Sometimes hidden costs can hurt you financially. Better safe than sorry!

But don't read too much into those hourly rates. The cheapest attorney may not be quite the bargain she looks like when her performance matches the cost, while that expensive lawyer might not be very good at his job, either. Balance the cost of the attorney against her experience. Find the balance that is right for you.

If the cost seems like too much, see if there is away to get some of the work done by a junior partner or even a paralegal. Maybe there are some things you can do yourself - copy papers, deliver documents or some other straightforward job. It never hurts to ask.

Some firms will charge you on a contingency basis. Contingency means you don't pay your attorney unless she wins the case. But watch out. You may still be liable for filing fees or hiring expert witnesses. Again, be frank with whatever Maryland law firm you choose and make sure they are frank with you!