Questions to ask.

Understanding an attorney’s background helps you decide whether the office is a practical fit for your situation.

• —Do you regularly handle matters like mine?
• —How long have you practiced in this area of law?
• —How many matters like mine have you handled recently?
• —Do you practice in the courts or agencies where my matter would be heard?
• —Are you certified or recognized in this area of law?

Every office works differently. These questions help you understand what the process would look like day to day.

• —Who would work on my matter, and who would be my main contact?
• —What are the possible approaches to my situation?
• —What are the realistic best and worst outcomes?
• —What would you need from me, and when?
• —Would others, such as paralegals or associates, handle parts of the work?

Deadlines can shape a legal matter from the very beginning. It is reasonable to ask what the timeline may involve.

• —Are there deadlines that affect my matter right now?
• —What happens if I wait before deciding what to do?
• —How long do matters like mine usually take?
• —What could make the process take longer or shorter?
• —What are the major stages, and how long is each one?

Ask for fee terms in plain language before agreeing to anything, and put the agreement in writing.

• —How do you charge — hourly, flat fee, contingency or another way?
• —What is included in the fee, and what is billed separately?
• —Will I need to pay a retainer, and how is it used?
• —What court costs, filing fees or other expenses should I expect?
• —Can you give me a written estimate, and when might it change?

Clear communication expectations early on prevent most frustration later in a legal matter.

• —How will we communicate — phone, email, text or in person?
• —How often should I expect updates about my matter?
• —How quickly are messages usually answered?
• —In what language will we communicate, and is interpretation available?
• —Who do I contact if my attorney is unavailable?

Before the conversation ends, make sure you know exactly what happens next and what is expected of you.

• —What should I do first after this conversation?
• —What documents or information should I gather next?
• —When will I hear from the office again?
• —What would cause the next step to change?
• —May I have the fee agreement and next steps in writing?