Finding A Real Estate Lawyer For Small-timers???

Q: I see it reccomended here frequently that people talk to a lawyer _before_ trouble comes up. I would take that to mean its a good idea to have a lawyer review all contracts you would sign before doing so. OK, I can see the wisdom in this. Problem is, I have no clue how to go about findnig a good lawyer that is appropriate for my small time needs. With agents or brokers, there are many sources of referals out there, but since most people _dont_ do this, I'm at a loss as to where to look. I even have lawyer friends that have no ideas. The only ones they know doing real estate normally work on _big_ deals, and are not set up for/ priced appropriately for reviewing small residential real estate contracts, etc. The other sources of info (say, bar association, phone book, web directories), come back with so much info it's head spinning. Any hints on how to tackle this issue? Thanks for any advice, and thanks to all the regulars here - in my few months of reading this group, I have found it to be one of the most on-topic, helpful ones on usenet.

A: -Where are you located? Is it in the United States, the so called litigious nation????? Everyplace where I have lived as well as every place where I have shopped for real estate MOST people _DO_ do it and referrals are not had to get from friends, neighbors and even Realtors - ask your Realtor for the names of some local lawyers who are familiar with real estate transaction in the

area where you are looking for the house. If you are hesitant about asking them, call the local office of your states bar association or as a last resort check the YELLOW PAGES under attorneys! (Even if as you claim it may be head spinning, it is better to get your head on straight than to lose it in a bad real estate deal!) -Call some of your local Title Companies and ask them which attorney(s) do they use for their legal issues / services. Usually those attorneys (are real estate attorneys) will work with you directly even in small real estate transactions. Occasionally (not always) they use attorneys located miles away from their offices so be forewarned.