When hiring an attorney it is important to feel comfortable with the attorney you
select. Make sure he or she answers all of your questions and is frank about the fee
requirements. Never hire a new attorney without getting a fee agreement in writing either
in a formal contract or a letter of explanation. It's also a good idea to ask the
attorney directly whether or not you need an attorney for your particular situation and
whether or not there are alternatives that make sense.
When discussing your problem with an attorney, do not try to categorize the case. Often
a case that a person may think is a negligence case is really a contract case. Present the
facts of the case to the attorney and let the attorney tell you what kind of case it is
and what your options are. Frequently a new client will call an attorney and tell the
attorney that they have a case that falls into a particular area. If the attorney does not
practice in this area, he may turn the new client away without speaking to him when the
client is merely mistaken about the type of case he has.
Tell the lawyer every fact that is relevant, even if you think that it will hurt your
case. An attorney cannot be expected to give you good advice if you are withholding
important information. Ask for the possible down sides to your case and the likelihood of
their occurrence. It is important that you know the potential consequences no matter how
unlikely. An attorney should give you a range of possibilities and their likelihood.
Don't expect simple answers to every question. Some times it will be impossible for an
attorney to give you a definite response at all. An attorney should not guarantee results.
Be wary of one who does.
Once you hire an attorney, make sure you keep your lawyer fully informed of any new
developments that are relevant to your case. Don't forget to keep your lawyer apprised of
any change in your address or telephone numbers.
Make sure that the attorney keeps you informed of any new developments involving your
case. However, be aware that the wheels of justice grind exceedingly slow. It is common
with many types of cases for there not to be any developments for weeks, and even months.
In cases involving litigation that is likely to go to trial, it is possible for more than
a year to pass without any developments.
Don't badger your lawyer. Remember, your attorney has other clients. Respect his time
as that is your attorney's stock in trade. An attorney does not make a living selling a
product, he is compensated for the use of his time. If you are paying your attorney based
on an hourly fee, you will be charged for every minute you speak to the attorney, unless
your agreement states otherwise.
Even if you are not paying the attorney on an hourly basis, the attorney will not
likely be prepared to intelligently discuss your case when you make impromptu calls. If
you call to speak to the attorney and the attorney is unable to take the call, make sure
you leave a message that informs the attorney of what you wish to discuss. If you do so,
the attorney will be able to review your case and be prepared to answer your questions
when you speak to him or her. Some times it is best to make periodic appointments to see
your attorney rather than making multiple telephone calls.
If you do not live in Rhode Island, and you need assistance hiring an attorney
practicing in your area, please contact us and we would be happy to assist.
