Getting the Best Out of Your Legal Advisors

Dealing with your lawyer can be a daunting exercise for some.  How do you get the best out of the relationship? 

You can help yourself and your lawyer by following a few simple rules:

• Be clear and concise.  The fee your lawyer charges will often depend on the time that it takes to deal with the matter.  Try to explain your problem or transaction, and the result you seek, directly and simply.
• Keep written records wherever possible and ensure that you have them available for your lawyer if requested.
• Don’t be afraid to discuss the likely cost.  It is much better that you have an idea of what the work might involve from the outset.
• Try to make yourself reasonably available for meetings or for signing documents when required.
• Do not hide or overlook information – it may be important.  To help you properly your lawyer needs to have the full picture.
• Do not be afraid to ask questions.  If you do not fully understand something it is important that your lawyer knows this.
• Try to keep appointments or at least give some warning if you cannot.