Lawyers in California
We list 19,444 lawyers in 595 California cities and towns. Pick a city to compare them, or send one request and let local lawyers come to you.
Cities in California
Smaller towns (162)
How to choose a lawyer
Check their bar license first
Every state bar has a free online lookup that shows whether a lawyer is licensed and in good standing, and whether they have any public discipline. It takes a couple of minutes and should come before any consultation.
Match the lawyer to your matter
A divorce, a DUI charge and a green card application call for very different experience. Ask how many matters like yours the lawyer has handled in the past few years, and in which courts or agencies.
Get the fee agreement in writing
A clear fee agreement spells out the hourly rate or flat fee, the retainer amount, what the fee covers and how unused retainer money is returned. Be wary of anyone who will not put fees in writing before you pay.
Ask who will do the work
At many firms, associates and paralegals handle much of the day-to-day work at lower rates. Ask who your main contact will be and how quickly they usually return calls and emails.
Walk away from guarantees
No ethical lawyer can promise how a judge, prosecutor or immigration officer will decide. Treat guaranteed results, pressure to sign on the spot, or requests for cash-only payment as red flags.
What it typically costs
These are typical US ranges for planning only, and prices in your area and for your particular matter may be higher or lower.
Hourly rates vary hugely by city, experience and practice area, so treat this as a rough guide only.
A contested divorce with custody or property disputes can cost far more, and court filing fees are extra.
Adding a living trust or planning for a larger or more complex estate usually raises the fee.
The fee depends on your district and how complicated your debts and assets are, and the court filing fee is extra.
Common questions
How much does a lawyer consultation cost?
Many lawyers offer a free or low-cost first consultation, often 15 to 60 minutes long. Others charge their usual hourly rate for it. Ask about the fee when you book so there are no surprises.
How do I check if a lawyer is licensed?
Search the lawyer's name on your state bar's website, which shows license status and any public discipline. If a lawyer says they are licensed in more than one state, you can check each one. Immigration lawyers may be licensed in any state, because immigration is federal law.
What should I bring to a first meeting with a lawyer?
Bring any papers tied to your matter, such as court notices, contracts, financial statements or immigration documents, along with a short timeline of what happened. Write your questions down ahead of time. The more organized you are, the more useful the meeting will be.
What is a retainer?
A retainer is an upfront deposit that the lawyer bills against as they work on your matter. Unearned funds are generally held in a trust account and returned to you if the work ends early. Your fee agreement should explain exactly how this works.
Can I find a lawyer in your area who offers payment plans?
Often, yes. Many family law, criminal defense, bankruptcy and immigration firms offer flat fees or payment plans, so ask on your first call. If money is tight, local legal aid organizations may be able to help people who qualify based on income.
Do I need a lawyer for an uncontested divorce?
Not always, since many states let couples file an uncontested divorce on their own using court forms. Many people still hire a lawyer to review the agreement, especially when children, a home, retirement accounts or a business are involved. Your local court's self-help center can explain the options where you live.