Criteria for Selecting Lawyers Abroad via the Internet
For medium-sized companies, going abroad often proves challenging. Selection methods that work well domestically seem ineffective abroad; recommendations and experience reports are rarely available. “Different countries, different customs,” but above all different legal systems and cultural differences create uncertainty when medium-sized businesses go international. Planned investments leave no room for experimentation. Experience, expertise, and reliability of on-site advisors are crucial.
For private individuals, selecting and assessing lawyers abroad for their legal matters is also difficult because the evaluation often relies only on the lawyers’ own statements on their websites.
Cross-border selection of a suitable lawyer or law firm based on objectively verifiable criteria is particularly challenging because statements and information on websites are hard to verify from afar.
Effective criteria for selecting lawyers abroad
Of course, a personal visit to the chosen law firm abroad provides the best insight into whether it delivers what its website promises. However, mandates abroad are often awarded without any in-person contact. In such cases, the verifiability of the information on the website is especially important to assess whether the stated qualifications, knowledge, practical experience, and other details are actually present. Objectively verifiable criteria for evaluating a cross-border law firm can include the following:
Duration of legal practice or existence of the law firm: Longevity can indicate stability and sustained client trust.
Experience of staff, their qualifications and admissions: Credentials, bar admissions, and demonstrated case experience matter.
International experience and time spent abroad by firm members: Foreign placements and cross-border case work build practical expertise.
Scope of advisory services, specialist lectures, and practice focuses: Breadth and depth of services and thought leadership signal capability.
Specialization and orientation toward cross-border legal issues: A clear focus on international matters is advantageous.
Verifiable references and any letters of recommendation: References you can check increase reliability.
Substantiability of statements made on the website: Claims should be supported by concrete evidence.
Languages of communication: Multilingual capability facilitates smooth cooperation.
Certification according to ISO standards: Quality certifications reflect standardized processes.
Legal publications (books, journals, etc.): Publications demonstrate expertise and engagement with the field.
Overall impression and professionalism at first contact: Professional conduct and clarity from the outset are telling.
Response times to initial inquiries: Timely responses suggest good organization and client focus.
Currency of information on the website: Up-to-date content indicates active maintenance and transparency.
Membership in subject-specific organizations: Professional affiliations can reflect specialization and network strength.
Do you have questions or would you like to find out more?
KPAG Kosmidis & Partner Law Firm
Byzantiou Str.10 GR – 57004 Thessaloniki – Angelochori
- +30 23920 57167
F. +30 2310 050 050 - info@kpag.com
- rechtsanwalt-griechenland.de