What to ask your lawyer

Right, so you have decided to get assistance with your legal problem from a lawyer.  Great move!

Generally speaking, the legal system is complex, often difficult to understand and can be expensive.  Of course there are exceptions to this and some people are especially good at, and thrive on, process, procedure and problem solving.  But if this is not you, then you may see value in using a lawyer to help you work through your legal issues more easily or with less stress and hopefully with a better outcome, than if you were to do it yourself.

So here are some questions that you might like to ask your lawyer before signing on the dotted line.

At first contact

• How long is the first appointment and what will it cost me?
• Is this an area of law that you have experience in?
• When can you start work?

Fees

• How will you charge me and how often?
• What will your fees cover?
• Will my costs increase from what you tell me now?
• Will you charge me if I call you or if you call me?
• How can I reduce what this will cost me?
• What is a Trust Account?

Communicating

• What is the best way to contact you?
• How and how often will you keep me informed of progress?
• How long will it generally take for you to respond to my calls, emails or letters?
• Is there anyone else that can assist me if you are not available?

The issues

• Will you be handling my case or will someone else be doing some or all of the work?
• Will you need to contract anyone else?  If so, who?
• What strategy will you use?
• What other alternatives do I have?
• How do you define “success” for my matter?
• What are my chances of success?

The process

• How long will my matter take from start to finish?
• What do I have to do?
• Will I have to attend court?
• Will you need to get a barrister?  If so, how and how much will they charge?

Don’t be shy asking these questions and any others of feel are necessary.  A good lawyer will answer them honestly and reliably.  Good Luck!