Following the suggestions included in this guide should assist you in keeping your ultimate fees for your case at a minimum.
1
Establishing Goals
People can control legal costs by establishing goals for their representation, communicating clearly with their lawyer about fees, and using their lawyer's time and skills efficiently.
The first objective should be to establish clear goals. You know your needs; your attorney knows what is possible, and what effort and expense will be needed to accomplish your goals. Discussing your objectives in advance will help you decide which ones you believe are worth the cost.
2
Attorney Experience
There are several factors that determine the size of legal costs. The skill and experience of the attorney and the difficulty of the case are important, but inevitably the amount of time and effort required by the attorney influences the bill. A client can control the costs by limiting the time the lawyer needs to effectively represent you.
3
Discuss fees in advance.
If you have a predetermined amount you want to spend, let your lawyer know. Your lawyer is willing to discuss with you how he or she bills for specific services. You can then use your budget and the fee method to guide you in your selection of work to be done. There are also options for how services can be charged. Some cases can be done for a percentage of your winnings. Some services are handled on a flat fee basis, particularly preparation of standard documents. If you have a continuing need for legal consultation, a flat retainer to cover all or most of your conversations may be possible.
4
Use your lawyer's time wisely.
Write down the names, addresses and telephone numbers of all people with information about your case. Bring all of the paperwork to your first conference. Tell your lawyer everything, good or bad, and don't let emotion color the accuracy of your facts. Avoid unnecessary telephone calls. If you call daily to get an update, or to discuss every new event, don't be surprised if you get charged for that time. Buy a notebook and use it to write down the questions you have, or to keep track of what has happened. You can then write your lawyer a note, or schedule a single appointment (in person or by telephone) to go over your questions. This will save each of you time and money.
5
Concluding Reminders
Be sure to consult with your lawyer before signing documents or reaching agreements. It is always cheaper to avoid a problem than to try to undo a problem.
It is not always possible to predict with certainty the complexity of a legal problem or case in advance. Your goals may change or your lawyer may have to respond to unanticipated actions by others.
Communicating clearly and regularly about legal costs, and working jointly to limit the time needed, is the best way to control your legal expense.
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