Legal & Estate Guidance

The Next Step in Getting Legal Help

At this point, you should have a list of four or five recommended local attorneys. Now it's time to make that first call. You should first ask to set up a face-to-face meeting but be aware that many attorneys charge for this introductory session. That's why your first question should be: "Do you charge for the initial visit?" If you do agree to a face-to-face meeting, it's important to ask the following questions but be observant too. Look around: is the office organized? Is he or she listening closely to what you have to say? What is your gut feeling to what you're seeing and hearing? Trust your intuition; if you don't feel you are a good match, then move on to the next attorney on your list.

The questions to ask in your initial interview are:

• Do you specialize in my type of case?
• Do you have any special credentials?
• Exactly who will handle my case; the attorney or a paralegal?
• Who will be my point-of-contact?
• What's the preferred way to communicate with your office?
• Will I be billed for phone calls and email correspondence with either the attorney or staff?
• How will I be informed about any progress in my case?
• How will fees be calculated? Hourly, contingency, or flat fee? If I will be billed hourly, will I be required to pay for portions of an hour?
• What expenses am I responsible for?
• How often can I expect to receive a bill?
• Is advance payment required? What happens to that money if I terminate the case before it's resolved?
• Will I receive copies of all documents pertaining to my case?

When you're satisfied you've found the right attorney at the right price, always ask for a written agreement and read it thoroughly. If you have questions about what you've read, ask them before you sign.