Dwayne S Beck: Finding an Attorney

Dwayne S Beck has been practicing law in California for more than two decades. He joined the law firm of Beck and Jenkins in 1999, which became at The Law Offices of David S Beck and Associates in the spring of 2014. He is the firm's managing partner. The firm specializes in representing clients in the insurance and amusement park industries.

As Dwayne S Beck knows, almost every business is going to need an attorney at some point in time, no matter the business and no matter its size. Even the smallest business, he knows, is going to have some kind of tax issue that is going to have to be addressed from a legal perspective. Some business people wait until something goes wrong before obtaining the services of an attorney, but Dwayne S Beck says this is a mistake in today's litigious society.

Choosing a law firm or an attorney can be a daunting prospect, says Dwayne S Beck. A good way to go about selecting one is to ask for recommendations from colleagues in your business, or from professionals you trust, such as bankers or accountants. Anyone scouting for an attorney in this way should do more than ask for names, says Dwayne S Beck. You should also find out about the strengths and areas of specialty of an attorney or practice.

Dwayne S Beck says once you have a list, narrow it down to the five best choices. Then set up a meeting and interview them. Make it plain that you are interested in building a long-term relationship and see whether they offer to a consultation without charge.

The things to look for, he says, are experience, understanding, the ability to communicate, availability, and whether you have a rapport. Dwayne S Beck adds that you should also get references, and don't be shy about asking for them. Finally, make sure you know what the attorney's fees will be.