How do I work with my attorney?
See the State Bar of California’s guide to working with an attorney.
What is LRIS?
The Lawyer Referral and Information Service is a non-profit organization sponsored by the San Luis Obispo County Bar Association. Our goal is to help SLO County residents and businesses find a reliable and qualified attorney to help them with their specific legal issue. LRIS cannot provide legal advice.
Is there a cost to use the LRIS?
If referred to an attorney, a $25.00 administrative fee is applied. Credit card payment is preferred. Fees are waived for Personal Injury, Criminal and Malpractice cases.
What is the referral process?
Calls to LRIS are answered by an experienced coordinator who will ask you for a brief summary of your legal issue. If appropriate, you will be referred to an attorney who specializes in the area of law you need. Once referred to an attorney, you will meet for a brief consultation at which time you and the attorney will determine the level of service to be provided by the firm.
What Qualifications Do The Referral Attorneys Have?
- Must have required experience; varies depending on area of law.
- Continually screened for up-to-date experience.
- Must be in good standing with the State Bar.
- Required to carry professional liability insurance.
What should I bring to the appointment?
Once you are referred to an attorney, it is helpful to bring items such as a brief summary, copies of any police, accident, or doctor reports, any relevant bills or insurance claims, list of important dates, contact information of all parties involved in the case.
How will I know if the attorney is right for me?
Given the importance of the work you are asking the lawyer to perform, you should select a lawyer in whom you have complete confidence. Consider asking about how the case will be handled, the experience the attorney has had in similar cases, what fee agreement is possible, including type of fee, expenses, frequency of billing and payment terms.
Alternative Resources:
Many times, your legal questions may be answered by consulting with various community services and not need an attorney referral. LRIS is here to provide you with contact information for these alternative resources.