How to Deal With Lawyers

Lawyers get busy, forgetting to keep the client informed, leaving the client feeling neglected. Misunderstandings or miscommunications occur. Like any relationship, the attorney-client relationship requires care.

To help the relationship:

• Be sure your lawyer explains the plan of action in language you understand.
• For concerns or communication problems, schedule a face-to-face meeting to politely talk it out.
• Consider writing your lawyer to confirm anything of importance. You can consult writings as a reminder of what you said, and they don't fade like our memories.
• Ask for written status reports. This helps you stay informed.
• If you are upset or dissatisfied, be polite about it, but let your lawyer know.
• If difficulty persists, explain this to a trusted friend or other person of respect, such as a clergyman. Having such a person politely contact your lawyer can clear up misunderstandings or emphasize the seriousness of your concerns.
• Get regular statements for fees and costs. This way, you discourage unpleasant surprises by not letting financial obligations build up to unanticipated levels.
• Promptly comply with requests for action or information.
• Always be honest and open with your lawyer.
• Stay informed.
• Be cheerful and compliment what you like.
• Show this list to your lawyer before you hire her or him.