How To Find The Right Lawyer In The UAE?
Anyone who is looking for a lawyer in the United Arab Emirates for the first time might ask himself a several very important of questions:
– Where to start (which Emirate)?
– Which lawyer do I need in my particular situation (criminal, civil, family, labour)?
– What to look for in a lawyer? (Price, quality, experience, nationality…).
Finding the right lawyer to handle your matter is critical in saving the time and money, as well as achieving a favorable result. It is advised to talk to several different lawyers before choosing the right one. First of all, it is better to look for someone that you feel comfortable with, the same nationality or speaking the same language, who better understands you. You should foresee a long-term relationship that can facilitate your ongoing needs.
Lawyers in the UAE do not necessarily have to be UAE nationals. All lawyers must be licensed to practice law in Federal courts and be under the supervision of an accredited law firm.
The best way to find a good lawyer is to:
– Do a thorough web search. Look online, check lawyer’s websites and forums, look everywhere you can. Attentively read all the testimonials you find from the real people.
– Ask in your Embassy/Consulate to recommend you any trusted local lawyer.
– Ask for references from your friends or colleagues who have had own experience with the certain law firms.
– Get referrals from the UAE courts or local Legal Department personally or through surfing on relevant websites.
– Make research and visit the nearest Law offices in your area.
– Ask the right questions while meeting with every lawyer you visit.
Important Tip:
Once you have chosen a lawyer, ask to sign a legal fees agreement and make sure you understand exactly what you are agreeing to, how you will be billed, and how your retainer will work. You might be paying hourly or a flat fee. Find out what it covers exactly. Don’t be shy to ask questions. Do not hire a lawyer who will not give you a legal fees agreement. This is not negotiable.
Be clear on what you expect, what the lawyer can do for you, and what the lawyer thinks it will cost. Lawyers cannot give exact estimates of the entire trial expenses, but they should be able to give you an idea.