before retaining an attorney

This process aims to benefit potential clients in four ways.

Number one, it allows you to determine if the attorney has adequate experience in the legal area pertaining to your problem and whether or not they have successfully represented previous clients in similar circumstances.

Secondly, you will discover whether this attorney's style is appropriate towards achieving your goals. Take for example a client seeking a friendly settlement, he or she will not likely benefit from an overly aggressive attorney whose style may simply backfire.

Point three, you will have a real example as to whether you and this lawyer will be able to communicate effectively.

And finally, you are able to ask up front, in no uncertain terms, whether or not the attorney will able to devote a satisfactory amount of time and resources to your case.

Questions to Ask the Attorney:

• How long have been working in this specialty and have you handled any disputes similar to mine?
• What are the possible outcomes when pursuing this matter?
• How long do expect the whole process to take?
• How will I be kept informed as things develop in my case?
• Will anyone else, like one of your associates or paralegals, be working on my case?
• Do you change a flat fee or hourly rate? How much?
• Besides your fee, will there be other expenses? How are they calculated?
• Can you give me a reasonably approximate estimation of the final costs?
• Can I get a written estimate?
• Is it possible to have your staff work on some of the case for a lower rate?
• Can unforeseen events cause an increase in the amount I am charged?
• If you charge a contingency fee, what percent of the amount I recover will be paid to you? Is it possible to figure your percentage after the expenses are deducted?
• How often will I be billed and how are billing disputes resolved? Will you agree to arbitration?
• Do you recommend this matter be submitted to an arbitrator or mediator? Do you have any recommendations?

Questions to Ask Yourself - After the Visit:

• Am I satisfied with this lawyer's level of experience and skill in my field?
• Am I certain this lawyer completely understands my case?
• Does this lawyer have sufficient resources to successfully handle my case?
• Can I effectively communicate with this lawyer? Does he/she understand me? Do I understand him/her?
• Can this lawyer clearly explain the steps involved in this process? Will he/she keep me informed along the way?
• Is the office located conveniently?
• Do I understand and agree to the attorney's proposed fee agreement?