A first, meeting in person with an attorney you’ve selected is essential and not only to exchange information regarding your case but also to establish trust and rapport. Typically, you’ll receive a quick telephone conversation with your attorney, who will invite you to meet in person.
If you’re not yet sure that you’ll be using the lawyer you’ve chosen, make sure to inquire about the cost of this initial consultation. Some lawyers offer free 墨尔本 律师 咨询, while other lawyers cost several hundreds of dollars.
What should I bring to the Meeting with My New Lawyer?
Here are some ideas for what you should bring to your next meeting and with the attorney (or future attorney).
Pen and pad of paper, or an electronic version! You’ll surely be tempted to make notes regarding any questions or concerns that pop up.
Questions to ask. If you’re in need of legal help and advice, chances are you’re stuck in a situation that you’re faced with a myriad of concerns and questions. However, it’s very easy to forget to ask these questions while sitting face-to-face to an attorney. Note these questions before you go to ensure that you have each and every question addressed while you’re in the room.
A check or another method of payment for the initial consultation fee should your lawyer charge one. It is important to discuss this ahead of time prior to the meeting. There’s nothing that sets a lawyer-client relationship beginning badly more quickly than not being ready or unwilling to pay the first payment. The moment you present the fee, it shows that you’re taking your relationship seriously.
All documents that are relevant to the case. If, for instance, you’re in the process of trying to negotiate a lease and would like the lawyer to examine the document, you must have a copy draft lease. If you can, create copies of every document that you hand to your lawyer to ensure you have the set at home. (Or you could ask the office of your lawyer to create copies, but they’ll likely charge the cost of premiums for those.)
What should I do during the Legal Meeting?
Your first meeting should be treated as an opportunity for business. As you try to establish a rapport to your attorney, you need the lawyer to perceive yourself as an important customer with serious issues.
Be prompt. Lawyers are adamant about their time, as they usually bill hourly. Being late by ten minutes can disrupt the remainder of the attorney’s schedule throughout the day.
Dress professional. It doesn’t mean that you must put on a suit however it is important to dress in the same type of dress you’d wear to a formal business gathering. It shows the lawyer that you’re professional and considering your case with seriousness.
Let the lawyer handle the talking for you, first. You’ll have a wealth of data you’ll need to convey to the lawyer, but he’ll be able to concentrate on the relevant facts and background information which are pertinent. The more organized you are with completed questionnaires (if your lawyer has sent one prior to time) as well as documents, diagrams as well as yourself, then the more straightforward to complete the procedure.
Be honest. Be aware that even if it’s not the case that you choose to engage a attorney, what you say in your meeting will be protected by attorney-client privilege. (The major exemption to this, perhaps unexpectedly, is when you inform your lawyer that you’re planning do something criminal, and this details the lawyer might be obliged to provide to law enforcement officials.) In all cases, honesty is best for your own good. Lawyers aren’t often faced with cases that are just cut and dry, with one side entirely considered to be the “good person.” It’s far wise for lawyers learn any negative information upfront rather than be astonished later by the revelations you did not to disclose. (In fact, your attorney’s fee agreement could mention that fees could rise if you’ve kept pertinent details.)
Learn more about the structure of fees for attorneys and other costs
In your first meeting with your lawyer it is crucial to be aware of the expected cost of representation as well as how this will be calculated.
Different lawyers bill clients in different ways. Some charge per hour, while others charge per the project, either on the basis of a flat fee or on a contingency. For lawyers that charge hourly they usually begin with a retainer fee, which is an initial upfront fee , which they later charge at an hourly rate , until it is exhausted (at which point it is assumed is typically that you’ll be prepared to spend more).
If you are considering hiring a lawyer to handle your case, inquire about the fees structure. Also , ask when exactly the fee will be billed whether it is monthly, quarterly upfront or at the end to the work?
It is possible to be provided with the term retainer agreement, or a legal service agreement. The contract typically defines the legal services provided by the representation provided by your lawyer and the fees you’ll have to pay. The documents are usually just a couple of pages long. Lawyers should explain the terms to you. Make sure you read and comprehend the document before signing it.
Make clear what will happen following the Meeting
Make sure you know what’s going to be the next step, and make sure you adhere to whatever you’re required to follow by your new attorney. The attorney will require the cooperation of your side.
In most cases, lawyers may ask you to provide additional documents or documents related to your case in order that they can look over the case in depth. If it’s not explicitly laid in your representation agreement and you’re not sure, ask the lawyer what they’d like to contact you (email or phone or any other method) and stay in touch regularly.
Lawyers may offer suggestions on the best way to proceed. This is especially crucial when you have a short time. If, for instance, your company was threatened with a lawsuit and you must respond to the lawsuit as soon as possible You’ll need an attorney to handle the matter immediately. When you’ve finished the meeting, you’ll be able to leave with an understanding of the work you’ve done and the next steps.
Keep in mind that there is no obligation to select a lawyer just because you attended the initial consultation. Like having a second opinion on your medical condition prior to procedure, it is typical to get advice from several lawyers prior to signing a contract. The relationship between the attorney and client is crucial and you should be comfortable with the choice you make.
Contact Your Lawyer with Questions
How long have your been practicing in this field of law?
How many cases have you dealt with similar to my own?
What was the final outcome of these instances?
What is the average time it will take to solve cases such as mine?
What budget type is best to anticipate in this type of situation from beginning to finish?
Do you need an retainer? If yes, what is the cost?
What other documents, additional information or other information do you require from me to start work?
What additional steps should I do now?
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