General Frequently Asked Questions

NOTE: The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for individual advice regarding your own situation.

When Should I See A Lawyer?

It is not possible to state every possible situation in which you may need to consult a lawyer. However, as a rule of thumb you should seek to consult a lawyer to prevent problems from occurring in the future in circumstances like: (1) Real Estate Transactions; (2) Making a will or planning your estate; (3) Family matters, such as divorce; (4) Starting or buying a business. You should definitely contact a lawyer once problems arise, such circumstances might be: (1) You have sued or believe that you may have a lawsuit you wish to pursue; (2) You are unable to resolve issues with a government agency; (3) Someone fails to perform work or services or fails to honor agreements or warranties; (4) Someone refuses to pay you funds to which you believe you are entitled, or someone is trying to collect a debt you believe you don't owe.

How do I Find a Lawyer?

You found one by clicking this website, but if you want more guidance consider: (1) asking a friend or relative; (2) ask a professional such as a doctor, minister, banker or business person; (3) contact you local bar association; and (4) use the telephone directory.

How Do I Choose a Lawyer?

Consider the following factors in making your decision: (1) Does the lawyer have experience with the problems I am dealing with?; (2) Does the lawyer charge for an initial consultation, and if so what is the charge?; (3) How will I be charged for the lawyer's services?; (4) Does the lawyer provide a written agreement detailing the fees and services provided for the fees?; (5) Could I communicate effectively with the lawyer?; (6) Was the lawyer clear and easy to understand?; (7) Are the lawyer's fees reasonable; and (8) Did the lawyer sound genuinely interested in my case?

What Do I Bring to My Consultation?

Always plan to attend your initial consultation with an open mind. You do not have to decide to employ the lawyer with whom you are interviewing until you have had time to think about the interview, the attorney and your prospective course of action. When you go to your initial consultation it is important you bring: (1) A written summary outlining your problem; (2) A list of names of all persons involved in your situation, including witnesses; (3) All documents in your possession relevant to your potential case; (4) A list of questions you would like to have answered by the lawyer at the consultation.

What Should I Expect of My Lawyer and What Should MY LAWYER Expect of Me?

You lawyer should: (1) Give you straight and honest advice; (2) Tell you of the strength and weaknesses of your potential case; (3) Keep you informed and follow your instructions within the bounds of the law; (4) Protect and defend you; and (5) Not represent any other client whose interests are in conflict with your own. Your lawyer should be able to expect you: (1) To be prompt for court appearances and attorney-client meetings; (2) To keep him informed of your current address and telephone numbers; and (3) complete honesty - even if it is embarrassing to tell the truth about your problem. Remember everything you discuss with your lawyer will be kept confidential. The only exception to this general rule is any discussions with your lawyer regarding plans for future crimes.

How are Lawyer Fees Set?

A lawyer's fee depends on many variables, such as the amount of time, the difficulty of the case, the skilled required, the customary fee in your area for similar work, the experience of the lawyer, the lawyer's reputation and ability, and whether the fee is a set amount or contingent on the outcome of the case. A flat fee is a standard (set) fee for a particular legal problem. (i.e. Attorney A has an set fee of $1000 for drafting simple wills) An hourly fee is a fee that is set on a per hour basis. Hourly fees do not typically include court costs and out-of-pocket expenses incurred during the representation. (i.e., Attorney A has an hourly fee $300 per hour for working on corporate litigation cases, in addition Attorney A charges court costs, travel expenses at $0.35 per mile, copy costs at $0.25 per page and Facsimile charges of $1.00 per page.) Some lawyers also require an advance fee called a retainer. Regardless of what your lawyer charges you, it is important to get your agreements in writing so that there is no confusion later down the road.

What if I Have A Problem With My Lawyer?

If you have a problem with your lawyer, you should first discuss the problem with him. Try to work out any problems. If the problems cannot be worked out, it is your right to fire your lawyer and hire someone else to represent you. If the situation occurs before your legal problem is settled, you should expect to pay a portion of the fee to the lawyer for time already invested. The lawyer has the obligation to return your file to you. If you believe your lawyer has done something illegal or unethical, you may wish to file a grievance against your lawyer. In such circumstances, contact your local bar association.