I like the tips provided in the article from the Flatt law firm.

I would also suggest that you go online or call your state bar association to pull inquiries, comments and complaints.

If you're certain of your position and don't mind going to trial, I would not use anyone who isn't board certified in trial law for the area of expertise required. In my own personal experience, you can get counsel for settlement purposes, and many non-board-certified firms simply do the paperwork and go through the motions to achieve a settlement. Not that it's bad, if you're willing to settle. They almost always get more than you can on your own. But if you can get 40% less from dealing directly, why do the lawyer thing. It's free money for them, and it'll take you more time to get your money. Nowadays many firms charge 30%-40% to settle, and 50% plus costs for trial.

If they want trial costs up front, and you don't want to settle, Run Away! They either don't have the time or the faith to take your case on.