Probably the best way is to ask someone you trust for a recommendation. This can be particularly helpful if that person's legal problem was similar to yours.

If your problem is "simple" your primary consideration may be cost and you may be better off shopping for the lowest price. Determining what is simple can be difficult.

The more complex your problem, the more important legal experience and skill become. Feel free to ask a lawyer about his experience with the kind of problem you have. How many cases like yours has he handled? What percentage of his practice is spent on your kind of case?

Who will actually work on your case, the lawyer or his staff? Does he have time for your case? How many other cases is he handling? Will he keep you informed?

You should feel comfortable with the lawyer you hire. Can you work with him? Do you feel comfortable talking with him? Does he answer your questions and explain so you understand? Do you feel you can trust him? Does he treat you with respect? Does he appear professional? Does he show concern for you and your problem?