How to get a good outcome by being the best possible client
Set some objectives and share them with your lawyer to confirm they are realistic.
Collect any information and documents that you think could be helpful and share everything with your lawyer, including any interactions related to your legal matter.
Recognize and accept that there are no guarantees, even if you think “the law is on your side.”
Be honest with your lawyer. There is no such thing as a little lie.
Don’t hide anything. It is always much easier to address a legal issue when your lawyer is fully informed about the circumstances surrounding your legal matter.
Ask questions. If your lawyer says something that you do not understand, ask for an explanation.
Try to keep calm and patient. Getting emotional impairs your ability to make clear, informed decisions with the guidance and support of your lawyer.
Don’t bring preconceived ideas to your first meeting with your lawyer. Go ahead and make every point you feel is important, but keep an open mind in terms of what you will hear from your lawyer.
Don’t rely on your memory. Take notes. At the end of the meeting, verbally summarize your understanding to ensure you and your lawyer are on the same page.
Establish a schedule covering all key steps in your legal matter. Expect your lawyer to follow the schedule, but understand that the typical work load for a lawyer fluctuates and there may be times when it is not possible to stick exactly to the schedule.
