10 rules how to choose the most suitable lawyer for you:
- The Client Instructs – The Lawyer Advises
- Always be in Control of the process
- A lawyer is to provide you with Options not with Decisions
- Always be accountable for your Decisions
- Choose Your Lawyer Wisely
- Like doctors, lawyers and law firms come in a variety of knowledge, experience levels and specialties
- Check for Recommendations from friends or colleagues
- Ask what have they done in the past?
- Ask for referrals
- Ask for a Free initial consultation
- Be Precise
- Ask immediately for what you want to achieve
- If it is a duplex tell your lawyers which one is for sale!
- If you are buying a property under a Superfund or Trust – Say so!
- Be Comprehensive
- Provide full names (including middle names)
- Will the property be Jointly owned? Ask for explanations if needed ie. Joint vs Common tenancies.
- Be Honest
- The lawyers are bound by duty of confidentiality
- Client has legal privilege preventing disclosure of legal documents
- The lawyers must act in the best interest of their clients (unless it’s contradictory to the interests of law and administration of justice)
- Build Trust with your Lawyer
- Work with integrity
- Lawyers are not mind readers
- Discuss the Costs Upfront
- Costs agreement
- Scope of works
- Charges and disbursements
- Charging by hour or flat rate
- Have clear goals and manage expectations
- Be Realistic
- Plan in advance to prevent Bad-Timing, Limitation periods and Urgency
- Checking emails is not a full-time daily task! Aim for efficiency
- Expectations of the outcome
- Ask for alternatives
- Be Responsive
- Read the draft document and send your feedback/comments promptly
- Advise of your current contact details
- Put some effort to gain maximum outcome
- Communication is the key!
- Listen, Learn and Ask questions
- Take the full benefit of the service
- Attentively receive advice (letter, verbal, representation)
- Regularly check the progress
- It is your matter – follow up if necessary
Contact us to find out more information or to arrange an appointment.
