As is always the case in life, people need to try to see both sides of a situation if they want a clear understanding. The same holds true when approaching an attorney to see if he or she might be the one you retain for your divorce.
If you have been on this site before, you know that I am a bit jaded when it comes to attorneys. In my case, I struck out the first time and hit a home run with my second attorney.
We all know that the economy has hurt a lot of pocketbooks but I feel fairly sure that attorneys are doing just fine. Here is something to think about, attorneys are people too. They need to be comfortable in having you for a client just like you need to be comfortable with them.
Who would want to take on a headache if it isn’t necessary? Unless you have a connection with a particular attorney, you will probably speak to him or her directly in order to discuss the possibility of a consultation. In some cases a secretary or an assistant might speak to you that first time.
There will be questions asked of you and visa versa and a bad phone call might end the possibility of retaining that attorney.
Here are a few tips for you to think about before your call:
- Ask your questions and listen, really listen to the answers. (Don’t forget to take notes.)
- Don’t argue about his or her fees. There might be a possibility of some negotiation when you meet in person but then again, there might not be.
- Don’t make your case sound more complicated than it is. Keep your description as simple as possible. If your attorney is experienced, he or she has heard it all.
- Do not become overemotional when speaking about your spouse.
- Do not go into the details about the other attorneys with whom you have already had consultations.
- Be aware of the fact that the attorney will ask you your name, spouse’s name, address, what work you both do, how many children and their ages and phone number. This is normal protocol. Do not attempt to be secretive.
- It is safe in assuming that the attorney will have someone check you and your spouse on line.
If your first call goes well and you arrange to meet in person, here a few things to do and observe:
- Be about 10 minutes early so that you can observe the interaction in the office. Take note of how long you are kept waiting.
- Listen to what you are advised courteously and take notes. If the attorney tells you something that you do not understand, ask him or her to explain in more detail.
- It is perfectly fine to let the attorney know if your funds are tight and to question him or her on how legal costs might be mitigated or if they can be mitigated at all.
Above all, try not to be intimidated. Remember that this is his or her job. You are new at all of this. Also remember that the attorney will be working for you and not the opposite. Be respectful and courteous and expect the same.
Photo by ConspiracyofHappiness
