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.