About 4.8 million people reported identity theft and fraud in 2020. That’s a 45% increase since 2019. If you recently had your identity stolen, it’s important to find a lawyer you can trust.
A reliable identity theft attorney can help you review your legal options. If you have an identity theft case, they can walk you through the process. Their experience and expertise could simplify matters moving forward.
Otherwise, you might struggle to navigate future legal proceedings on your own.
Not sure who to hire? Here are seven factors to consider when vetting your options for attorneys. With these tips, you can make a more informed decision.
Make sure you have the best possible lawyer at your side. Start your search for representation with these tips today.
- License and Certification
Start your search online. You can Google “identity theft attorney” near me to start building a list of options.
Otherwise, visit your local bar association website. Check out the Martindale-Hubbel directory, too. Start creating a list of options for attorneys to research further.
While you’re online, make sure each lawyer on your list is licensed to practice in the area. If their license isn’t up-to-date, scratch them off your list. Make sure to double-check they’re licensed before signing a contract.
You can always check the local bar association website to make sure.
Determine if the lawyer has any additional board certifications, too. Their board certification can indicate they’ve completed additional training.
For example, you might want to hire someone with National Board of Trial Advocacy certification.
These lawyers have extensive courtroom experience. They’ll have an easier time preparing you for trial.
Choosing a licensed, qualified attorney for your identity theft case will help you feel confident in their abilities.
- Relevant Experience
It’s not enough to find a licensed attorney, though. Instead, make sure each lawyer on your list has years of hands-on experience.
First, determine how long they’ve practiced law. Consider how many cases they’ve handled in that time, too. Then, determine how long they’ve specialized in identity theft cases.
You might find a few lawyers with generalized experience. Try to find someone who specializes instead. Someone who specializes in identity theft casework will have a better understanding of the laws and procedures involved.
They’ll likely know of recent cases that might impact your case, too.
Type of Case
It’s not enough to find someone who specializes in identity theft cases, either. Instead, make sure your attorney specializes in your type of case. Ask how many similar cases they’ve handled over the years.
There’s a new identity theft victim every two seconds. In fact, about one in every 15 people became victims of identity fraud last year. Different types of identity theft can include:
- Financial fraud
- Tax fraud
- Medical fraud
- Employment fraud
- Child fraud
- Deceased citizen fraud
- Criminal fraud
Financial fraud occurs when someone steals your financial information to make a purchase. You might need someone with credit card fraud experience. You can learn more here: https://consumerprotection.net/new-york-city-identity-theft-lawyer/unauthorized-credit-card-transactions/.
With tax fraud, someone can use your information to receive your tax returns.
Medical fraud allows people to avoid high medical bills. They can use your personal information to ensure you receive their bills instead.
Some fraudsters use your personal information to pass a background check.
Others can open a credit report in a child’s name, ruining their future credit.
Deceased citizen fraud involves using a dead person’s information to open accounts or steal money. Criminal fraud involves using your information to get out of a criminal process. Sometimes it’s used to pay a speeding ticket or a bigger charge.
Choose someone with experience handling cases like yours in the past. They’ll have a better understanding of how to proceed.
- Courtroom Experience
Some lawyers are apprehensive about going to court. In fact, these lawyers might even try to avoid taking a case to court. These attorneys won’t have your best interests in mind.
As you vet your options for attorneys, ask each one about their recent cases. How many of those cases went to court? Determine the outcome for those cases, too.
Choose someone who is prepared to handle your identity theft case every step of the way.
- A Strong Reputation
If you want to find the best lawyer for your case, consider their professional reputation.
Visit each lawyer’s BBB profile, Google My Business listing, and website to find client reviews. Reading online reviews will help you learn more about their abilities.
If the lawyer has any complaints filed against them, take your case to someone else.
- A Proven Track Record
Talk to your attorney about their case history.
How many identity theft cases have they handled over the years? How many have they won versus lost?
Consider their recent track record, too. How many cases have they won in the past year?
You might find the lawyer has improved over time. If they have, great!
Reviewing their track record will help you learn more about their ability to handle your case. If they haven’t won similar cases in the past, choose someone else.
- Strong Skillset
Schedule a consultation with at least three attorneys on your list. Discuss the specifics of your case. What outcome do they expect?
Ask if they think they can help accomplish your goals. Determine how they’ll help as well.
During the consultation appointment, pay attention to how they communicate. Make sure they’re confident, clear, and concise. After all, the lawyer will end up speaking on your behalf.
Choose someone with a strong skillset.
- The Right Price
Before making your final choice, take the time to start comparing attorney fees.
Ask each lawyer about their fee structure. Some work based on a fixed rate. Others work on a contingency fee basis.
Don’t choose the cheapest option on your list. Instead, review your notes. Choose a capable lawyer who is able to accomplish your goals.
Start Searching: 7 Factors to Consider Before Hiring an Identity Theft Attorney
Don’t choose the first identity theft attorney you call. Instead, keep these factors in mind when reviewing your options for attorneys. With these tips, you can find the best lawyer for your identity theft case.
You’ll have peace of mind knowing a capable lawyer is at your side.
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