what to ask during an attorney consultation

by Colten Quitzon 7 min read

Questions to Ask Your Lawyer During a Consultation
  • 1) What kind of experience do you have with similar cases?
  • 2) What would be your strategy for my case?
  • 3) Are there any alternatives to going to court?
  • 4) What are my possible outcomes?
  • 5) Who will actually handle my case?
  • 6) What is my role in my case?
Jan 29, 2017

What are the best questions to ask a lawyer?

Jun 01, 2020 · 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.

What questions do lawyers ask their clients?

During your initial consultation, the attorney may ask you about several documents. Documents that would be particularly helpful to have on hand during the consultation may include: Accident Report or Incident Report – This report is usually prepared by the agency (police, highway patrol, sheriff’s office, etc. that responded to the incident).

What should I ask before hiring an attorney?

This question helps you to find out the lawyer’s track record, how many cases were won and settled that were similar to yours. Ask about the possible outcomes of cases like yours and the chances of success. “How Much Participation Is Expected From Me?” Your lawyer will need to know you and your story in order to represent you effectively.

What questions does an attorney ask?

Sep 18, 2020 · During your initial consultation and before hiring a lawyer, ask what is their expertise. You’ll also want to know how successful they have been defending cases similar to yours. An attorney with a lot of experience will be able to settle a case involving common injuries without going to trial. A quick resolution is always best but you also want a favorable …

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How do I prepare for a consultation?

Prepare For Your ConsultationBring all documents. Make copies of all the documents you have collected regarding your case and give these copies to your lawyer.Have notes ready. ... Dress for success. ... Be honest. ... Talk about costs. ... Ask your lawyer questions. ... Understand all documents you sign. ... Keep your own files.More items...

How do you prepare for an attorney meeting?

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 do you say when talking 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 are some questions an attorney might ask a new client?

What Questions do Lawyers Ask Their Clients?What is your case about? A lawyer will want to know every single detail of your case. ... What do you hope to accomplish? ... How do you want us to communicate? ... Why did you choose me? ... Are you comfortable with my rates?Nov 28, 2019

What do you wear when you meet a lawyer?

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. ... If you need to refer to a document, pull out what you have and be sure to give it to your attorney.Sep 4, 2019

What is an initial consultation?

An Initial consultation is a 90 minute consultation for a new client who would like to meet with a psychologist to discuss current issues and/or concerns and talk about strategies and goals for therapy and/or a treatment plan.

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

Is it normal to not hear from your lawyer?

Throughout the process of getting your financial settlement after becoming injured, there may be periods of time that you do not hear from your attorney. Although this can be unnerving, it is a normal part of the legal process.Oct 25, 2018

How do I know if my lawyer is doing a good job?

Here's what you need to know to strip away the flash and appearance and find out if your how your lawyer is doing on your case:Check the public record. ... Get the records. ... Ask for a face-to-face meeting. ... Do online research. ... Get another lawyer's opinion.More items...

What should lawyers avoid when interviewing a client?

Whether you're meeting in person or virtually over video conference, make sure the setting is clean and comfortable. Also, the lawyer-client interview is not the time to try to impress the client with your fanciest lawyer-speak. Avoid using legal jargon and overly technical language.Oct 4, 2021

What questions do judges ask?

First, the judge will ask your name, date of birth, address, and possibly your Social Security Number. Second, you will usually be asked if you were in the military and if you are married, single, or divorced. These are questions that are easy for most people.Jul 9, 2021

What are the questions asked in client interview?

Client Interview Questions You Should Be Ready to AnswerWhat Are Your Prices? ... What's Your Working Process? ... What Happens if We're Not Happy With Your Work? ... What Experience Do You Have? ... Why Do You Think We're a Good Fit? ... What Value Can You Bring to Our Business?Nov 9, 2015

How to prepare for a lawyer consultation?

How do I prepare for a lawyer consultation? In addition to any documents related to your case, it’s important to show up with a list of questions to ask the lawyer during the consultation. It’s also a good idea to consider the answers you expect, or hope, to receive beforehand. With that in mind, here are some good questions to ask a lawyer ...

Can a lawyer give you a strategy?

If the lawyer is willing to discuss it, ask not only about what strategies the lawyer is considering, but also about the amount of time they believe each strategy will take. You’ll have to balance the potential benefits with the cost and risk of different strategies, so it’s important to know about them early on.

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.

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.

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.

7 Questions To Ask Your Lawyer At Your First Consultation

When you are looking for a lawyer, it can be a daunting task, especially if you have no prior experience with one nor have a good recommendation from a trusted family member or friend.

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If you are in need of a skilled, reputable lawyer who will be that type of representative for you regarding an injury case, take the time to call Cesar Ornelas Law at 210-405-6503 or visit his website at cesarornelaslaw.com to click on “ contact ” on the top menu to see how he can help! His office is available 24/7.

1. How Long Have You Been Practicing Law?

Now, this may seem like a pretty obvious question, but you would be amazed at how many clients forget to ask. The question was one of the least asked but is one of the most important questions.

2. What Special Training Have You Received?

In your legal consultation, you will want to gain as much information on their background and expertise as possible. In addition to asking how many years they have practiced in a certain area, you should also ask if they have attended seminars, workshops, continuing education classes, or received a certificate upon graduating law school.

3. What is Your Fee and How Are Costs Charged?

Know the fee the attorney charges up front. The last thing you want is to receive a bill at the end of the month and not only be shocked, but have little to no resources to pay. Ask if there are payment plans in place as well.

4. Are You a Mediator or a Trial Attorney

Going to trial is expensive, however, at times it is necessary to accomplish your goals. You will want to get a feel during your legal consultation as to how aggressive your attorney will be when it comes to going to trial or being able to settle the dispute outside of the courtroom.

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