how to.consult a lawyer about work

by Glen Stiedemann 7 min read

You should get several names and talk to at least two different attorneys before selecting the one who seems best suited to your needs. You should consult with an attorney who specializes in employment or labor law. An attorney practicing in any other area, no matter how competent, won't have the experience you need to prove your claim.

Full Answer

How do I find a good lawyer to consult?

Finding the Right Attorney Before you can have an attorney consultation, you need to find a lawyer who might be a good fit. Look for an attorney who focuses his or her practice on your type of legal question, or someone who lists this as a type of law they regularly practice. Your local bar association may have a referral program.

Can a lawyer be a consultant?

Consider, you are a lawyer; you are a person with special oration, amazing at persuasion, and some peculiarities that help people advance in a consultant. Keep in mind that consulting and the legal field are intermingled as a good lawyer is a good consultant.

What happens at an initial consultation with a lawyer?

Meeting with a lawyer for an initial consultation is generally not a chance to ask legal questions that are in depth, but is instead an opportunity to get a sense as to whether this lawyer is the right one to handle your case. Use this meeting to help you decide which lawyer will be the best one for your case.

How do I hire a lawyer?

When you need to hire an attorney for legal services, you want to be sure to hire the right person for your case. Most lawyers offer a free consultation so that you have a chance to determine if he or she is the right person for you.

Why do lawyers offer free consultations?

What to ask a lawyer about a case?

What is a meeting with a lawyer?

Why is it important to meet with a small business attorney?

Can you ask where an attorney went to law school?

See more

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How do you approach a lawyer?

Tips for Talking to an AttorneyAlways be as honest and candid as possible about the facts of your case. ... Ask questions if you don't understand something that your attorney mentions or explains to you.Approach an attorney about your case as soon as you think you may need one.More items...•

In what situations should you hire a lawyer?

Below are the top ten reasons to hire an attorney.The Law is Complicated. ... Not Having a Lawyer May Cost You More. ... Lawyers Know How to Challenge Evidence. ... Filing the Wrong Document or Following the Wrong Procedure Could Ruin Your Case. ... They Have Access to the Witnesses and Experts You'll Need on Your Side.More items...•

How much does it cost to talk to a lawyer?

The minimum for an hourly consultation is around PHP 1,000.00 outside of Metro Manila and PHP 2,500.00 in Metro Manila. The rate only goes higher depending on the lawyer. There is no standard rate for an hourly consultation so it is best to ask for the consultation fee before booking a consultation.

How much does it cost to hire a lawyer?

Throughout the United States, typical attorney fees usually range from about $100 an hour to $400 an hour. These hourly rates will increase with experience and practice area specialization.

8 Things Most Lawyers Won't Tell You but Should | LawFirms.com

We've all heard horror stories from the legal trenches.... Your lawyer fails to show up, he doesn't make an objection when it's the most important moment, he or she loses your big case for you...

10 Top Questions to Ask a Lawyer You’re Meeting - AskTheLawyers.com™

You’ll want to make sure you’re dealing with a true professional. If not, you move on. Here are some questions to ask a lawyer in your first meeting.

Seven tips on preparing for your initial consultation with a lawyer

All attorneys meet with prospective clients in what is called an initial consultation.This is a first meeting between you and the lawyer to help you both decide whether you want to work together in an attorney-client relationship.

Sample Letter for Asking for Help to Lawyer - Msrblog

Sample Letter for Asking for Help to Lawyer [These are sample Letter for Asking for Help to Lawyer. When you hire an attorney, you will need to communicate with him frequently so that he obtains all of the necessary evidence to present a strong case on your behalf.

Sample Letter Requesting Legal Advice

1. We informed you that the Government of India, Ministry of Corporate Affairs, vide circular no. 17/2011 and 18/2011 on Green Initiatives in the Corporate Governance…Clarification regarding service of documents by e-mode instead of Under Posting Certificate, the Department of Posts has recently discontinued the postal facility under ‘Certificate of Posting’ vide their letter dated 23.02 ...

What is a legal consultation?

A legal consultation is a chance for you to ask questions and determine whether you would like to move forward with that attorney. For the attorney, they will determine if they are able to competently represent you, and if they can legally represent you, given the facts of your case.

What can an attorney do for you?

An attorney can also review the evidence you provide them with, and determine how best to proceed. Most importantly, your attorney will be able to represent you in court, as needed, to protect your legal rights and potentially recover a damages award for you. If you are experiencing workplace discrimination, it is especially important ...

What to do if you are being discriminated against in the workplace?

If you are experiencing workplace discrimination, it is especially important for you to consult with a local employment law attorney. As discrimination cases involve multiple branches of law, an attorney can better help you understand what you are facing and how to move forward.

What is employment law?

Employment law is a broad term which covers the legal aspects related to employment, employers, independent contractors, and employees. Employment law creates specific guidelines to govern many different subjects, from selecting and interviewing employees to work disputes and termination of employment. Both employers and employees must follow these ...

How to prepare for a consultation?

One of the best ways to prepare for a consultation is to compile documentation related to your case. It is important to bring every document you have for the attorney to review, as the attorney themselves will be able to properly determine which documents are relevant and which are not. In initial consultations involving employment law, ...

Why is it important to be honest in a legal consultation?

It is important to be honest during the initial consultation regarding the facts of your case, as lying about the facts or circumstances of your case can lead to harsh legal penalties. Another reason to be completely honest during a legal consultation is that consultations are confidential.

Is an employment contract binding?

Once the employee has signed the contract, it is considered to be legally binding. It is common for an employment contract to designate an employee as at-will employee. Employment discrimination is discrimination in the workplace. This discrimination is based on belonging to a protected class, such as: Race; Sex; Religion;

Requirements to Become a Lawyer

To learn the legal system properly, one should attend law school. Certain complicated things are necessary to learn before you step into the market as a lawyer. Depending upon your region, you may have to learn different rules and regulations of the court. Also, manage a meeting with any lawyer to learn some important things.

Duties of a Lawyer

A person who has a bachelor’s degree in law is regarded as a lawyer. He usually works for an individual and fights for his right in the court. The lawyer and prosecutor are not the same. So, one should not get confused about both these terms. Here are some responsibilities or duties of a lawyer.

Questions to Ask Your Consultant

A cost consultant is bound to answer your questions. If you find a chance, ask these general questions from their consultant:

Frequently Asked Questions

Lawyers earn almost 20% more salary than legal consultants. However, the 2 to 3 years gap is very similar at top firms in both industrial sectors.

Conclusion

The first thing to keep in mind: you need to begin a professional understanding of your work. Many of our lawyers’ clients like to explain the legal principles behind their work, but the truth is consulting infirmity would not care much about that. Clients want to see that you can frame your work in a business context.

What is the best way to handle an employment discrimination claim?

A discrimination lawyer in your area would be best suited to handling your employment discrimination claim. Your local lawyer can help you prepare your case by informing you of how your state’s laws will affect the outcome of your case.

What makes a discrimination case strong?

Simply put, the facts of the discrimination case and the evidence available to support the case, are what makes a case strong or weak. Thus, it is important to maintain all of the evidence that may support your discrimination case. Additionally, testimony from the witnesses of the discrimination also makes a strong discrimination case.

What is written evidence of discrimination?

Written evidence of the discrimination, such as any emails or other communications, company policies or handbooks, job offers and employment contracts, and other writings; An account of verbal communications, such as statements made in an interview or other situations;

What is a police report?

Police or accident reports; Property deeds or any documents relating to the property, such as an oil and gas lease; Employment records, such as your employment contract, employment agreements, or timesheets; or.

What is the Immigration Reform and Control Act?

The Immigration Reform and Control Act (“IRCA”): Imposes various requirements on employers in connection with employees’ immigration status. An example of this would be how it addresses when and how an employer should verify the employment eligibility of workers; and.

What is the ADA?

The Americans with Disabilities Act (“ADA”): Prohibits discrimination against a person based on their disability status. It also touches on other aspects of employment, such as providing reasonable accommodations for employees with disabilities;

What is the age discrimination in employment act?

The Age Discrimination in Employment Act (“ADEA”): Provides protection from discrimination for employers who are aged forty years and older. It addresses specific situations, such as being forced to retire based on age;

What can an employment attorney do?

An employment attorney can help employers and employees work together to reach a resolution in the event of a problem, from wages and workplace safety to discrimination and wrongful termination. But when is it appropriate to reach out?

Why do employees seek employment attorneys?

So, an employee would want to seek out an employment attorney to determine what their rights are and whether their situation is worthy of pursuing an actual lawsuit. The reason, Levitt explains, is that the agency findings are not binding and many times not even admissible because agencies do not do exhaustive investigations.

What should an employee keep in a record of incidents?

Employees who believe they are being discriminated against in some way or are not being paid correctly, etc., should keep accurate records of incidents, including dates and times. Note any witnesses. All of this information will be helpful for the agency or attorney should the employee decide to pursue action.

What is FLSA in employment law?

If the problem is on-time pay, overtime, or proper pay classification (non-exempt versus exempt status), the attorney can help the employee navigate the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) to determine if the possibility exists that rights have been violated and help the employee with next steps. There are a plethora of labor laws an employer could ...

What to do if your employer-employee relationship becomes strained?

If your employer-employee relationship becomes strained on account of a dispute involving wages, workplace safety, discrimination, or wrongful termination, it's helpful to know an employment attorney who can explain both sides' rights and duties.

Can an employee file a lawsuit if there is no evidence?

Even if the agency finds insufficient evidence, the employee still has the right to file a lawsuit. The agency will either help the employee at that point or tell the employee that they should find an attorney. So, an employee would want to seek out an employment attorney to determine what their rights are and whether their situation is worthy ...

Can an employer violate labor laws?

There are a plethora of labor laws an employer could easily violate unknowingly (or willfully), and since there are different employee count and tenure thresholds for different laws, it's helpful to get guidance from an attorney.

What is employment law?

Employment law is a highly specialized and an ever-changing area of the law with significant gray areas. Retain someone who has represented individual employees, not employers. For more information on potential sources for employment lawyers, see the Workplace Fairness employment attorney directory.

Why do I need an attorney?

Why might I need a lawyer to handle a employment-related problem? To fully enforce state and federal laws protecting employees against illegal actions by their employers, you will need an attorney in many situations where you have a serious problem with your employer and need to take legal action.

What happens if you fail to document events?

If you fail to document events as they happen, later you may not have the evidence necessary to prove your case. You need documents or a witness to confirm facts and events. If it is your word against your manager's word, it will be very difficult to prove your claim.

Can an employer file a lawsuit without a lawyer?

Most employers have much more experience and resources than you to evaluate and handle claims. An employee who has not consulted an attorney can be at a real disadvantage. Succeeding in an employment lawsuit without a lawyer (called filing "pro se") is virtually impossible.

What do you sign at a disciplinary meeting?

To attend a disciplinary meeting (take good notes, don’t sign anything except a form acknowledging receipt of the discipline , and sign “as to receipt only, rebuttal to follow); To sign documents you understand, like applications, insurance forms, and tax documents.

What to do if you are thinking about filing a lawsuit?

If you’re thinking about filing suit, you probably want to speak to a lawyer. Confusing claims: There are some employment laws on the books that you might not be aware of, so you might have a case you don’t know about. And there are some laws you think exist, that don’t.

When a work situation has reached a level where initiating an agency complaint or process is being considered, should an

When a work situation has reached a level where initiating an agency complaint or process is being considered, an employee should approach the decision as objectively as possible, despite the fact that at such a point the situation likely is very emotionally charged.

Who should be the sounding board for an employee?

It could be a spouse or partner, a good friend, shop steward, or even a counselor in an employee assistance program (EAP).

Do employers take terminations seriously?

Being taken seriously: Some employers don’t take you seriously unless you have representation.

Why do people hire lawyers?

Most people hired attorneys because they don't want to sit in court. Well, truth be told, neither do I. The difference between lawyer and client is that the lawyer expects it to take a long time and understands. The client typically thinks it's unjustified. So, your hard truth is that each case takes time. Be patient.

Why is credibility important in court?

Credibility is one of the most important things in this world - and most important in a courtroom. If you care enough only to wear sweats to the courthouse, then the judge will see that you don't care, and that will be reflected in their desire to help you, listen to you, and decide in your favor. Step it up.

What to do if your lawyer doubts you?

Tell the Truth. If your lawyer doubts you in the consultation, or doesn't think you have a case, while that may change over time, getting over an initial disbelief is very hard. You have to prove your case. Your attorney is not your witness. They are your advocate - but you are responsible for coming up with proof.

What to say when a judge can see your boobs?

If the judge can see your boobs, he's not listening to your story. If I can see your boobs, then I know you didn't care enough about yourself to talk to an attorney. Dress like you are going to church. Credibility is one of the most important things in this world - and most important in a courtroom.

What happens if you don't pay your lawyer?

If you don't pay your lawyer on the day of trial, or however you have agreed to, then while he or she may be obligated by other ethical duties to do his/her best, they won't be motivated by sympathy for you, and it will show in court.

What to do if no one can confirm a story is true?

If no one can confirm that the story is true, you will at least need something external, such as a hard copy document, to prove your case. Be prepared.

Do juries get it right?

While juries usually get it right, sometimes, it's not about whether a particular matter is emotional or simple, complicated or straightforward. Sometimes people make decisions on who has the nicer suit, or who is more pleasant to deal with. So even if your case is good or even if it's not so strong.

Why do lawyers offer free consultations?

Most lawyers offer a free consultation so that you have a chance to determine if he or she is the right person for you. Going to the first meeting with some simple questions can help you ensure you find the right person for the legal help you need. You will not get much legal advice at this consult since it is not meant to resolve your legal ...

What to ask a lawyer about a case?

An important question to ask a lawyer is what the strategy for your case will be and the outcome the lawyer expects. You’ll want to get details on what kind of procedures to expect. Ask how long it will take for the entire case to be resolved. Discuss the legal strategies that will be used. Find out if your attorney will attempt to settle and if mediation or arbitration are options. Think about the answers and if you are comfortable with them. Maybe you want to avoid a trial at all costs but your attorney really wants to just go to trial, or perhaps you have no intention of settling and want your day in court. It is important that your lawyer’s strategy lines up with your needs.

What is a meeting with a lawyer?

Meeting with a lawyer for an initial consultation is generally not a chance to ask legal questions that are in depth, but is instead an opportunity to get a sense as to whether this lawyer is the right one to handle your case. Use this meeting to help you decide which lawyer will be the best one for your case.

Why is it important to meet with a small business attorney?

Meeting with a small business attorney is an important way to get your business off to a good start and minimize future risks. Here are questions to ask at your first meeting.

Can you ask where an attorney went to law school?

It is generally not very helpful to ask where the attorney went to law school since you can find this information online and it often tells you nothing useful anyhow. Focus instead on experience with your type of case. You can also ask the average verdict the lawyer has obtained in your type of case.

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