Why Meeting Your Attorney in Person Matters
With any business it is important to meet in person. This is just as true when hiring a lawyer in Murfreesboro TN, or New York City. No matter if you are hiring an attorney after an auto accident, business litigation, medical malpractice, or personal injury you need to meet your lawyer face to face.
When you hire an attorney you are entering into a relationship. Meeting face to face builds a stronger relationship. Instilling trust, humanization and familiarity. These are the foundations of a positive relationship. You should meet your attorney at least once before starting any legal case. It is also a good idea to have a meeting a couple of days before any court dates. This way you can hammer out any details or questions you or your lawyer have about the case or the court proceedings.
What to Talk About
It is also a chance to ask questions about the lawyers and law practice, talk about fee arrangements between you and the firm, and fill out any paper work that may be required. In addition it gives the lawyer you have hired the chance to talk to you about your case and get answers to the facts about your potential claim (such as how were you injured or wronged and what you expect to recover or have compensated).
This will also be a time that your attorney can give you advice on how to proceed with your particular claim which will be different depending on the type of claim or case (automobile accident,business litigation,personal injury). It will also help the lawyer understand your particular needs giving you the opportunity to directly state your concerns and to give all the background and facts surrounding your claim.
How to Prepare for Meeting your Lawyer
Make sure to prepare before hand in order to make the most of your meeting. Create a list of questions to ask your attorney. What are your goals? What is the fee? What is the process for your particular claim? What are the next steps? What will be required of you? It may also be a time for your attorney to evaluate you as a witness and a client. Make sure to be honest and open with your lawyer and do not lie or mislead them. This could damage your case and your relationship with your attorney. Be sure to take any supporting documents with you such as witness statements, medical records, evaluations, and evidence. If you are unable to work due to injury make sure to have a summary of the financial damages.
Having these questions as well as answer to ones your lawyer will ask will help ensure you both get the most out of your meeting and will be a great first step in your business relationship.
