Do you need the services of a solicitor? It could be that you want to divorce your spouse, or you are accused of a crime. Below are some vital questions you should ask your lawyer before hiring him or her.
1. Have You Handled a Similar Matter In The Past?
Your first task should be to examine the lawyer's experience and winning history. This helps increase your confidence in the solicitor's services. Your choice of solicitor should have a licence to provide legal services in your locality. Professional awards, post-graduate diplomas and affiliations with professional bodies are an added advantage.
2. How much Do You Charge?
The lawyer should be reasonably priced. Below are a few tips to help you evaluate the lawyer's pricing strategy;
- Does the lawyer have a fixed fee or does he or she charge per hour?
- How much retainer does the lawyer need?
- What extra costs will you incur? For instance, you may incur additional charges, such as administrative fees and transport expenses.
- When and how should you make payments? Once you pay the retainer, the lawyer will send regular invoices to update you on your payments.
What should you do if you feel the lawyer has overcharged you? Most lawyers choose to solve the dispute through a negotiation process. However, if you are still unsatisfied, you should report the matter to the Legal Profession Conduct Commission.
3. What Is The Process?
Your type of case will determine the process. For instance, in Australia, family law and civil suits are mostly settled through an out-of-court process. As such, parties may choose to negotiate, mediate, or solve the issue through arbitration. For criminal cases, the lawyer will work to secure bail. You will need to attend preliminary hearings and pre-trial motions before the trial begins.
4. What Are The Chances Of a Positive Outcome?
Your lawyer's arguments and the evidence presented in court will determine the outcome of the case. Therefore, your lawyer will require witness statements, photographs and police reports to use as evidence in court or out of court settlement proceedings. Your conduct may also influence the outcome of the case. For instance, if you defy the terms of bail, the court could think you are guilty.
If your lawyer thinks that you have little chance of winning, he or she will work to get the best possible outcome. For instance, he or she might negotiate a lower sentence with the prosecution.
Consulting with your lawyer is now easy with the above tips. Inquire about the lawyer's experience, qualifications and pricing strategy. The lawyer should also inform you about the due process and manage your expectations.
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