what kind of questions will your lawyer ask in your first meeting

• What would the lawyer like to see in order to evaluate your situation?
• What problems does the lawyer foresee with your case?
• How would the lawyer go about handling your situation? What is the process?
• How long will it take to bring the matter to a conclusion?
• How would the lawyer charge for his or her services?
• Would the lawyer handle the case personally or would it be passed on to some other lawyer in the firm? ...

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What should I expect at my first meeting with my attorney?

You’re trying out the ‘fit’ of that lawyer to your case, and if it works, you move forward with it. In Order to Move Forward With Any Lawyer, First Ask These Ten Questions. Think of the consultation as an interview. You’re hiring the lawyer. Put the attorney to the test, starting with this question…. 1. How Long Have You Practiced Law?

What questions should I Ask my attorney on my first visit?

Undoubtedly, you have many questions you'll want to ask your attorney. To ensure that you get all these answered, try listing them out ahead of time. Questions you might ask a lawyer include: How have other clients addressed similar issues in …

What should I know before I hire an attorney?

This is an important question for two reasons. First, it will test the divorce attorney's knowledge and experience of the divorce process and divorce law. Second, it will educate you on what specifically the attorney can and will do with you to help mitigate the costs. Do not settle for a generic answer.

What questions should I ask when hiring a family law attorney?

Apr 01, 2018 · Bring a list of questions to ask the attorney about his or her experience. Questions may include how long the attorney has practiced in probate law, what type of experience he or she has with the probate court that will handle the deceased’s estate, and what the attorney’s fees will be, as well as how they will be paid.

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When meeting an Elder Law Lawyer for the first time it is hard to know what you need to know. We assembled the most important questions here. 1. Can my loved one sign legal documents even with dementia? Can my loved one sign legal documents even with dementia? It depends. (How’s that for a lawyer’s answer?!).

How do I prepare for my first meeting with a lawyer?

Tips For Meeting With Your Lawyer For the First TimeDress To Impress. ... Be Ready To Give Your Attorney Important Information About Yourself. ... Gather Your Evidence And Have It Ready For Your First Meeting. ... Get Your Facts Straight. ... Plan Something You Can Look Forward To For After Your Meeting.

What questions would a lawyer ask you?

In Order to Move Forward With Any Lawyer, First Ask These Ten QuestionsHow Long Have You Practiced Law? ... What Types of Cases Do You Manage? ... Who's Your Typical Client? ... How Many Similar Cases Have You Taken On? ... What Kind of Special Training or Knowledge You Have Outside Your Law Degree? ... What Are Your Fees and Costs?More items...

What should I wear when meeting with an attorney?

The standard attire for meeting with you lawyer should be business casual. Wear dress pants, a nice shirt or top. Women should wear a conservative dress or skirt.Sep 4, 2019

How do you prepare to talk to 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...•Aug 4, 2015

What questions should I ask in an attorney interview?

Litigation-related questions to ask a lawyer in an interview include:How many court and jury trials have you done and what is your win percentage? ... What is the chance that I receive a favorable outcome? ... What are the risks if the case does fail? ... What are the odds of a settlement? ... How long should I expect this to take?

How do you answer a lawyer question?

Listen carefully to the questions you are asked. If you don't understand the question, have it repeated, then give a thoughtful, considered answer. DO NOT GIVE AN ANSWER WITHOUT THINKING. While answers should not be rushed, neither should there be any unnaturally long delay to a simple question if you know the answer.Apr 22, 2015

What color should a woman wear to court?

The best color to wear to court is probably navy blue or dark gray. These colors suggest seriousness. At the same time, they do not come with the negative connotations that are often associated with the color black (for instance, some people associate black with evil, coldness, and darkness).

What should you wear to a lawyers office?

Generally, it is recommended that you dress in business casual attire when consulting with a lawyer. Wearing appropriate attire can mean the difference between being taken seriously and not. Your purpose for meeting with a lawyer can also influence the way you choose to present yourself.Sep 30, 2021

Can you wear jeans to mediation?

You want to be well-groomed and dress somewhat conservatively. Button-down shirts and blouses, sweaters, slacks or khakis are all appropriate choices. You may also wear jeans to a deposition or mediation if they are clean and without tears.Aug 23, 2019

What should you not say to a lawyer?

9 Taboo Sayings You Should Never Tell Your LawyerI forgot I had an appointment. ... I didn't bring the documents related to my case. ... I have already done some of the work for you. ... My case will be easy money for you. ... I have already spoken with 5 other lawyers. ... Other lawyers don't have my best interests at heart.More items...•Mar 17, 2021

How do you tell your lawyer what you want?

Practice telling your attorney exactly what you want, and don't be afraid to ask questions....Your lawyer should be happy to answer all of your questions.If you don't understand something your lawyer has said, ask for clarification. ... Ask your lawyer to explain the reasoning behind their advice.More items...

How often should your attorney contact you?

You should never be afraid or feel like an intrusion to contact your attorney every three weeks or so, or more frequently if there is a lot going on with your health or other matters related to your legal case. There is of course a limit to how much you should be contacting or sharing.Jun 17, 2020

What to discuss with a divorce lawyer?

During your first meeting with a lawyer, you can discuss potential strategies to better manage the cost of a divorce. Of course, the cost does not all depend on you or your lawyer – your spouse and his or her lawyer will play a big role in the ultimate cost. 3.

What is the process of filing for divorce?

The process includes filing for divorce, serving or notifying the other party, gathering information, possible temporary orders to address child custody, support and managing assets during the divorce, and some form of resolution through either a settlement agreement or a court hearing.

Do lawyers need a retainer?

Your lawyer will likely give you a written contract and will require a deposit (a retainer) to take your case. Your lawyer may also require more information from you before he or she can file. Before you leave the meeting, be sure to ask the lawyer what they need from you to effectively prepare for the next steps in your case. 5.

What does a lawyer need to know?

Your lawyer needs to know the results you desire at the end of the suit. It helps them to work towards attaining them. For instance, if you want monetary compensation for something terrible that was done to you, let them know. Do not forget to tell them the amount you think would be enough for you.

Do lawyers want to know your case?

A lawyer will want to know every single detail of your case. This includes the circumstances that forced you to file the suit. When answering this question, be as honest as possible. Do not withhold any important information from your attorney. It will increase your chances of winning in court.

Can a lawyer negotiate with a client?

You can even ask them to lower them for your convenience. Most lawyers have no problem negotiating with their clients. These are some of the many questions that your attorney might ask you during your first meeting. Be as genuine as possible because it will lay a solid foundation for your working relationship.

What to bring to a lawyer meeting?

What Should I Bring? 1 A pen and pad of paper or the electronic equivalent! In the course of your conversation with your attorney, you will surely want to write down notes on any issues or questions that arise. 2 A list of questions. Clients often have a million questions and concerns before a meeting, one or more of which they then forget to ask when sitting face to face with their attorney. Write these questions down ahead of time, to make sure you get every query answered while you're sitting there. 3 A check for the initial consultation fee, if your attorney charges one. This should be discussed ahead of the meeting. Nothing gets a lawyer-client relationship off on the wrong foot faster than forgetting to make your first payment. Presenting that fee immediately shows that you're taking the relationship seriously. 4 Any documents relevant to your case. If, for example, you are negotiating a lease and want the lawyer to review it, you should obviously bring a copy of the draft lease. If possible, make multiple copies of each document you give to your lawyer, so that you can take a set back home. (Or you can ask the lawyer's office to make the copies, but you'll likely be charged at premium rates for those.)

What is an initial meeting with an attorney?

An initial meeting with your attorney is important, not just for exchanging information about your case, but also for building rapport and trust. Commonly, you will first have a short phone call with the lawyer, who will then ask to meet you in person. If you aren't yet certain you plan to use this lawyer, ...

What to write in a conversation with an attorney?

In the course of your conversation with your attorney, you will surely want to write down notes on any issues or questions that arise. A list of questions. Clients often have a million questions and concerns before a meeting, one or more of which they then forget to ask when sitting face to face with their attorney.

What happens if you don't hire a lawyer?

Be honest. Remember that, even if you do not end up hiring the lawyer, everything you tell him or her during your meeting is generally subject to the attorney-client privilege. (The biggest exception to this, not surprisingly, is if you tell your lawyer that you are going to commit a crime, which information the lawyer may be duty-bound ...

Should I get a second opinion before surgery?

Much like getting a second medical opinion before a surgery, it is common to seek advice from two or more lawyers before committing. The attorney-client relationship is important, and you need to feel comfortable with your choice.

Should I hire an attorney at the end of a meeting?

By the end of your meeting, you should leave with a clear understanding of what you've accomplished and what's ahead. Remember, you are under no obligation to hire a particular attorney merely because you had an initial meeting.

Is honesty good for a lawyer?

In most cases, honesty is in your best interest. Lawyers seldom see cases that are cut and dried, with one party completely the "good guy.". It 's much better for the lawyer to know any bad news up front than to be surprised later with revelations you failed to share.

What to know before meeting with a lawyer?

Before you get too far into a meeting or conversation, the lawyer will want to know about any possible conflicts of interest that might prevent him or her from ethically representing you.

What do lawyers want to see?

In addition to learning about you and hearing your narrative, your lawyer will also want to see documents and evidence, both for informational purposes and to help assess the strength of your case. Obviously, the nature of the evidence will vary dramatically from one type of case to another. As you prepare to meet with your lawyer, try ...

Why is it important to prepare for a first consultation?

In short, preparation for your first consultation meeting is critical. Strong preparation will save time and money. It will also ensure that all of your questions are answered, and that your attorney has all the information needed in order to effectively represent you.

What are the goals of a lawyer?

Typical goals might include: review and provide comments on a contract or legal document. draft a will.

What to include in a dispute narrative?

Some important details to include in that narrative include: names of the key players in your dispute. date the dispute or problem began. type of the dispute (harassment, contract, divorce) key events of your dispute, including a "who, what, where, when and why" narrative, and. current status of your dispute.

How to respond to a legal complaint?

respond to a legal complaint, lawsuit, or threatening letter. research whether you have a meritorious legal claim against another person or entity. draft a legal complaint or demand letter to another person or entity, or. negotiate a lease, contract, or other agreement.

What documents are used to dispute a contract?

contracts (such as employment agreements , leases, promissory notes, and the like) financial documents (for example, if you'll be drafting a will or starting a company) correspondence (letters, emails, or text messages between you and the other party or otherwise relevant to your dispute)

What should an attorney explain to you?

The attorney should explain to you the importance of the attorney - client relationship and the privilege in communications. The attorney should explain to you how and why you should not disclose attorney - client communications to any third parties or your spouse. This is a complex topic.

Why is it important to ask a divorce attorney about their experience?

First, it will test the divorce attorney's knowledge and experience of the divorce process and divorce law. Second, it will educate you on what specifically the attorney can and will do with you to help mitigate the costs. Do not settle for a generic answer.

What can a divorce attorney do for you?

An experienced and knowledgeable divorce attorney will provide you with the tools to communicate better with your spouse. These tools include how to communicate with your spouse, when to communicate with your spouse and how to diffuse conflict.

What happens if an attorney cannot provide references to former clients?

If an attorney cannot provide you with multiple references to former clients, that attorney may not have much success representing clients. The former clients should also be types of cases similar to yours. I am not referring to you going through a divorce and getting a referral to a prior divorce client.

What happens if an attorney does not have a solid command of the law?

If the attorney does not have a solid command of the law on these issues, he or she may lack the experience you need. This is especially true if you expect your divorce to be contested and high conflict. Questions to ask a divorce attorney on the first visit about the divorce process. 1.

How often do attorneys communicate?

The more complex the case, the more the communication will likely take place. A typical case has communication between one to four times per month.

How to plan your life after a divorce?

If you want to plan your life after a divorce, you should at least have a general idea of how long divorces similar to yours take. This planning will also help you prepare a budget for the cost of divorce. The attorney should truthfully tell you there is no way to predict exactly how long a divorce will take.

What documents are needed for a living will?

It is important for most people to have these documents. For people where dementia is at issue, it is even more important. These are the documents you need: 1 a client-specific durable power of attorney containing long-term care planning provisions (generic forms rarely suffice) 2 health care directions (often referred to as Living Wills and Health Care Surrogate Designations) 3 a Last Will and Testament 4 a trust agreement.

Do transactional attorneys charge a fee?

Most successful transactional attorneys (estate planning attorneys, elder law attorneys, etc.) charge a consultation fee. In fact, this may be one way to judge the demand and therefore the reputation of a particular lawyer.

Can you have an elder law attorney?

It should be a big deal to you too. Elder Law Attorneys have specific experience in dementia-specific and health-related legal matters. It can make a very big difference in quality of life. Even if you have another type of attorney as your estate planning lawyer or family lawyer, you can still visit with an Elder Law Attorney ...

What happens at your first meeting with an attorney?

The first meeting with an attorney usually involves the exchange of a lot of information.

What to talk about at a lawyer consultation?

At the consultation, be prepared to talk about your case. The lawyer may not too many details of your case before you sign a fee agreement, but you should be prepared just in case.

What does a probate lawyer want to know?

In addition to a general understanding of your legal needs, the lawyer may want to know who else is involved with the case and their relationship to you. For example, in some probate matters, a client visits the lawyer to seek help for his or her parents or siblings.

What to do if a lawyer doesn't ask for documentation?

Even if a lawyer doesn't ask for documentation beforehand, it's still a good idea to bring a copy of all relevant documents to the meeting. Spend some time thinking about what you may have on hand. Try to organize the documents in a logical manner before you meet with the lawyer.

How to save money on legal fees?

To save money on legal fees, take the time to select a good lawyer, prepare well for your first meeting, and do everything you can to reduce the time that lawyer will have to spend on your case . Even eliminating one email exchange could save you hundreds of dollars.

How to start a relationship with an attorney?

After you decide on which attorney to hire, you’ll sign a fee agreement and officially begin your relationship with your lawyer. The first meeting with an attorney usually involves the exchange of a lot of information. You will spend a good deal of time explaining to the attorney the details of your legal issue and answering his or her questions. He or she will spend a good amount of time discussion and laying out a plan. If you think you might get nervous or forget something, you could practice this conversation with a friend, or you could write down what you want to say.

Do lawyers charge for consultations?

Attorney consultations vary, depending on the attorney’s preferences. Some lawyers charge for a consultation, others don’t. Some will only hold consultations over the phone, but some will let you come in (this is best, so that you can get a better feel for the attorney).

What Should I Bring to The Meeting with My New Lawyer?

• Here are some suggestions for what to bring to your meeting with your attorney (or prospective attorney). 1. A pen and pad of paper or the electronic equivalent!You will surely want to write down notes on any issues or questions that arise. 2. A list of questions. If you're seeking legal help, you're probably in a sticky enough situation that you h...

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