A consultation with a lawyer is your first step in the process of pursuing your legal case.
This is when you get to ask questions and discover whether a lawyer is the right fit for you and your case. So, you might be wondering what questions to ask a family lawyer during a consultation? It is important to choose a lawyer who you can communicate with and have the confidence they are pursuing your best interests.
Here is some guidance on the questions to ask a family lawyer during a consultation.
What happens during a consultation?
During your consultation with a family lawyer, you will be asked to share the details of your matter so they can gather the necessary information to evaluate your case.
Your lawyer will use their legal knowledge and experience to determine the strength of your case and your options as well as potential outcomes. They will also ensure you understand the implications of your case and the timelines involved in pursuing your matter further.
It’s important to set yourself up to have a successful consultation.
What questions should you ask a family lawyer during a consultation?
There are no right or wrong questions to ask during a consultation. This is about gathering information and understanding your compatibility with a lawyer. Here are some of the questions we recommend asking.
Specialization and Background
Understanding the experience of your lawyer is important to ensure that you will be properly represented throughout your case. Some questions you can ask to determine their background and experience are:
- Do you specialize in family law?
- How long have you been practicing family law?
- Have you ever worked on a case similar to mine?
Communication, Availability, Fees
You will also want to understand the process of working with them. You will want to ask questions about how they communicate, payment and whether they have the availability to take on your case. Some examples of questions may include:
- What are your fees and how do you bill for your services?
- How do you communicate with clients?
- Can I expect regular updates on the progress of my case?
- Do you have the availability to take on my case at the moment?
Timeline, Strategy, Process
It is also important to understand what the process of pursuing your case will require. Some questions to ask may include:
- Based on what’s been discussed today, can you estimate an approximate timeline for my case?
- What strategy would you suggest using?
- What are the potential obstacles you foresee?
- What documents will I need to prepare?
It is important to note that any estimation of the timeline or process will need to be finalized and may vary during your case. The important thing is to continue to have open communication with your lawyer to understand how the timeline, process and strategy are evolving throughout your case.
Alternatives, Rights, and Obligations
Finally, your lawyer may have alternative suggestions based on their experience and knowledge of the law. You can ask questions about these options during your consultation. These questions may include:
- Are there alternative dispute resolution methods that we can consider for my case?
- Have you represented a client during mediation?
In addition to the lawyers’ background and recommendations for your case, trust your instincts. It is crucial that you feel comfortable with the family lawyer that you choose to represent you.
Preparing for your consultation with a family lawyer will help set a strong foundation for your case. If you are looking to schedule a free consultation, contact one of our family lawyers today.
This blog is made available by the law firm publisher, Epstein & Associates, for educational purposes. It provides general information and a general understanding of the law but does not provide specific legal advice. Any specific questions about your legal concerns please contact us now and speak to an expert today.