What Happens During a Legal Consultation?
Finding the right law firm takes time. Many people turn to the internet for help, but a quick Google search may show dozens — or even hundreds — of experienced attorneys in your area.
Browse attorney reviews or ask friends for references, and then schedule a legal consultation with the law firms that seem like a good fit. Here’s what may happen during your legal consultation.
What Is a Legal Consultation?
A legal consultation is a meeting that occurs before you hire an attorney to take your case. Basically, the initial consultation is like an interview for both parties involved. This is your chance to get to know each other and decide whether you can build a strong attorney-client relationship.
During a consultation, you can ask questions about fees, briefly discuss your legal issue and discover how the legal process affects cases like yours. You aren't legally obligated to hire an attorney after a consultation unless you sign documents agreeing to work together, and a law firm isn't required to accept your case. An ethical lawyer will tell you if they're not the right legal professional for your needs. This may happen if an attorney identifies a conflict of interest, such as realizing they previously represented another party involved in your case. A law firm may also decline to take your case if they prefer to focus on a specific area of law, such as personal injury law or family law, and you need help with a legal matter in a different niche.
Expect a productive meet-and-greet when you schedule an initial consultation with a law firm. You'll likely discuss legal strategies your case requires and find out important information about the law firm. Feel free to ask questions about a lawyer's educational background, case history and relationships with judges or opposing counsel.
You may also have questions about these topics:
- Fees: Will there be retainer fees, hourly fees, flat fees, filing fees, subpoena fees and other potential costs associated with your case?
- Communication: How often will you hear from your attorney, and will communication be via phone, email, text or in-person meetings?
- Outcome: What's the most likely outcome for cases like yours, and how are similar cases usually handled?
The law firm may also have questions for you, so don't be surprised if an attorney asks about your criminal history, employment or living arrangements.
Should You Bring Anything When You Meet With a Lawyer?
Make the most of your legal consultation by being prepared. When you schedule a consultation, ask the law firm if you should bring anything with you to the meeting. The law office may request that you bring a photo ID, documents relevant to the case and evidence supporting your argument. You may also want to bring a timeline of events leading up to the case or a brief summary of your legal issue.
Remember, the initial appointment is typically just a brief meeting. Don't bring boxes of documents, lengthy videos, audio recordings or hundreds of photos to the appointment unless instructed otherwise. You can provide more details about your case after you hire the law firm.
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Are Legal Consultations Free?
Many attorneys offer a free consultation for prospective clients, but some law firms charge for the initial meeting. Before you schedule a consultation, ask the legal office for information about their fee structure. The law firm may charge flat fees for consultations or bill you at an hourly rate. This hourly rate may be discounted for the initial consultation, so keep that in mind if you decide to move forward and hire a law firm for your case.
Don't hire an attorney on a whim. Schedule a legal consultation and get to know the law firm before you decide a lawyer should handle your legal issue.
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