Five Tips for A Productive Client/Attorney Relationship

Posted on January 29, 2015

 

1. Don’t keep your attorney’s number on speed dial. While you might be tempted to speak with your attorney about any and all issues concerning your pending divorce, you will most likely get a bill from them that may not agree with your pocketbook. Instead, keep a list of important topics to tell your attorney and send it via email.

2. Keep a calendar of upcoming events. Although divorce attorneys are required to let you know when hearings are coming up, they are not obliged to keep reminding you of your upcoming court dates. You must pay attention to your own court dates and know if you should be there and when. You should speak with the attorney at least a week in advance of the hearing to ensure the attorney has the tools they need to present your case well in Court.

3. Buy a Printer/Scanner. In particularly difficult family law cases, your attorney might ask you to send scanned copies of documents they might need with little to no notice to you. Don’t get overwhelmed by these requests from your attorney—have the tools ready to assist the attorney as much as possible. Having up to date technology at home will assist your attorney in the courtroom and save you money in the long run.

4. Update and Follow Up. You hired your attorney to represent your interests in Court. Don’t make them guess about the current status of your case or “forget” to mention some key bits of information. One of the most common things we hear from our clients is that our client “didn’t know we needed to know that.” Never assume the attorney has all of the information they need—provide the attorney with updates and as much information as possible. Trust us, the attorney will tell you when to stop talking.

5. Be flexible. Divorce cases especially can be very stressful. Flexibility in your expectations and your schedule will assist you in getting through the process. Attorneys get sick, Judges have emergencies, and there are times when you just might have to reschedule plans that you have had for some time. Understanding that things may come up in your case that you cannot plan for, only helps you get through the process with your sanity intact.