01

Find the correct authority

Lawyers are licensed by state authorities. Use the authority for the state where the lawyer says they are admitted, and search by the lawyer’s individual name when possible.

02

Check identity and status

Match the name and location carefully. Read the authority’s explanation of status labels and disciplinary information rather than assuming every label means the same thing in every state.

03

Ask the firm who would handle the matter

A firm profile may not identify the particular attorney assigned to a matter. Ask for that name, then verify the individual through the relevant authority.