Here is a short, not exhaustive list of things for which people come to me:

• wills, trusts, and other estate planning to ensure loved ones are taken care of after your death
• health care powers of attorney, durable (financial) powers of attorney to ensure that others can make decisions for you if you become incapacitated
• prenuptial agreements, cohabitation agreements, marital property agreements to preserve your rights and duties in your intimate relationship
• special needs trusts (for loved ones with disabilities)
• probate and settling of estates
• selling property, buying property, with or without a realtor, FSBO
• tenancy in common agreements, land contracts
• deed drafting
• condominium conversions and creation
• residential and commercial leases
• incorporation (LLCs, etc)
• security deposits and damages claims
• nonprofit status applications and nonprofit organization formation
• litigation
  
  

1.   Subject matter

Attorneys practice and specialize in different areas, just like doctors.  And even though a dermatologist would be qualified and able to do a patient physical exam, you probably would not want him or her to
perform open heart surgery.   Similarly, you should talk with your
prospective lawyer about what you need done and decide if the work is a good fit.  An attorney should be willing to refer you to someone who does handle your type of matter, sometimes even within the same firm.
For example, I practice in a lot of areas of the law, but do not handle family law matters like divorce.  Instead, I refer those inquiries to a partner in my firm who specializes in family law.

2.   Bedside manner

Talk with an attorney about your issue before you sign any retainer agreements or hand over fees.  Sometimes this will be over the phone or at a consultation.  An attorney should listen to what you have to say, explain things to you clearly, and make sure that you get your questions answered.  He or she should be polite, professional, and efficient with time, yet be sensitive to your situation and treat you like a human being.

3.   Rates and results

Be upfront and realistic with yourself and your prospective attorney about your financial situation and how much you can afford to pay for the work.  Some attorneys might be willing to negotiate on rates, and many are willing to set up payment plans.  After you have talked about your matter, ask for an estimate, but understand that every case is different and will take a different amount of time (and money).