Hiring an attorney can be a confusing adventure, especially if you don't know what questions to ask during the first visit. You might think that you pay a fee and everything is taken care of. Unfortunately, it's not as easy as that. If you're in need of a legal assistance, it's important that you know what questions to ask at your initial consultation. Take a look at some of the questions you'll want to consider before hiring a lawyer.
Do They Know The Parties Involved?
Before you hire your attorney, find out if they know the parties involved. This is probably one of the most important question you can ask. If they do know the other parties, find out how. You don't want to be in for a big surprise when you hire your attorney and then find out they travel in a social circle that conflicts with your case.
Do They Take Phone Calls?
It can be frustrating to try and speak to your attorney only to find out that their associate handles all phone calls. While it's fine to speak to an associate occasionally, there may be times when speaking directly to your attorney will be essential. If the attorney you've chosen does not field their own phone calls, you may want to speak to other attorneys before choosing one.
How Much Do They Charge For Phone Calls?
Now that you've found an attorney who will take their own phone calls, you're going to want to find out how much those calls are going to cost you. Some attorneys will charge for just the amount of time that they were on the phone to you. Others will charge you a set unit of time. For instance, if your call is between 1-15 minutes, they will charge you for the full 15 minutes. This can add up if you make a lot of phone calls to your attorney. A word of warning, to keep your legal fees down, try limiting your phone calls to essential calls only.
Will They Keep You In The Loop About Negotiations?
If you want to be kept current about developments and negotiations regarding your case, you're going to want an attorney who will keep you in the loop. Some attorneys will only notify you of major developments, while others will keep you informed about all developments. Depending on your preference, be sure to choose an attorney who will keep you informed.
When it's time to find a lawyer, be sure you find one who will work best for you. Firms like Marcus & Mack will be happy to consult with you to see if you're the right fit for each other. Asking these simple questions can help you select an attorney who will provide you with the best possible outcome for your legal case.
