This is one of the most important questions people ask, and it's a fair one. A few signs can help you tell the difference:

• Who actually calls you. At some firms, you'll only ever hear from a case manager you've never met. Ask directly: will an attorney be involved in my case, and will I have a way to reach them?
• How they talk about outcomes. Be cautious of firms that guarantee results or throw out big numbers before knowing your case. Legitimate firms will tell you that results vary and depend on the facts.
• Whether they check in with you, or whether you have to chase them for updates.
• How long they've been in your community. A firm with real roots in your area tends to have more at stake in doing right by local families.

At LSM, Tony Shapero personally calls new clients, and when you hire our firm, you get the entire team, not just one name on a file. We think that's how it should work everywhere, and we'd encourage you to ask any firm you're considering these same questions.