Working with a lawyer can be beneficial for individuals as well as companies. However, you may find it overwhelming to find the right attorney at law for your needs. Whether you're seeking help with tenant law, divorce, a business dispute, or other legal issues, here are five traits a good lawyer should possess.

1) Honesty 

Legal issues can be complex, and there's no guarantee a judge will side with you during a hearing or trial. This is normal, and a reputable lawyer will often tell you that.

Sure, you may have a decent chance at winning your case, and it's okay for a lawyer to mention that the odds are in your favor. However, you should be wary of any lawyers that promise specific results. Watch out for phrases like "I promise to help you get full custody" or "With my help, you're sure to win this case against your landlord."

2) Availability

Find a lawyer who is available to answer your questions promptly and provide updates when necessary. You don't want to wait weeks to get an answer or hear back on the progress of your case. Ideally, you should be able to contact your lawyer easily by phone or email, and they should respond in a timely manner. If your lawyer is unavailable frequently, they should be able to direct you to other people who can answer your question at the law office, such as paralegals or secretaries.

3) Knowledgeable

Your lawyer should be knowledgeable about the type of legal issue you're facing. When interviewing potential lawyers, ask questions to make sure they are familiar with the laws and regulations relevant to your case. Furthermore, ask whether your lawyer has handled cases like yours successfully in the past.

4) Persuasive

Your lawyer should be persuasive in court, presenting well-researched arguments to back you up. You may also find that it's important for legal counsel to communicate and build relationships outside the courtroom. After all, an attorney at law often needs to negotiate with opposing lawyers, guardian ad litems, or other parties throughout the course of your case.

5) Prepared

A good lawyer will always be prepared. With your help, they should gather evidence and thoroughly research your case so you have an advantage in court. It's also important for lawyers to remain organized and on top of deadlines throughout the legal process.

Take the time to find a lawyer who has these traits and won't let you down. The wrong attorney may cost you your case.

Consult a lawyer to learn more.