What is the purpose of a consultation? Law firms may differ on that answer, but our Firm’s goal is not to pressure you to hire us during your consultation. Our goal is to provide you with answers and options. When you leave our office, we want you to have a better understanding of what your future may look like.

Three things you should take into consideration before hiring a law firm:

1. Consider scheduling a consultation with more than one law firm. The purpose of a consultation is to get answers to your questions. If you leave a consultation and are uncertain as to what options you have, then you may not have gotten the guidance you need. Rarely do people buy the first house they walk through or the first car they test drive. A second opinion will help you feel more confident in your decision.
2. Aside from getting the answers you need, we believe that most people overlook the importance of whether they feel comfortable with the attorney they met. If you do not have a good feeling during your consultation, regardless of the answers you are provided, then you should think twice about hiring that attorney. The dynamic relationship between the attorney and client must be built on trust, loyalty, respect and a sense of comfort. Otherwise, your representation may be doomed to distrust and second guessing; which will not help your legal matter or personal sanity.
3. As with most things in life, you get what you pay for. Find out what your case may cost you in attorney fees and what payment plan options are offered. Ask about additional fees or costs that you might be responsible for and how those might be billed to you, if at all. It is important that all of this be stated in any representation agreement you may sign. While cost is certainly a factor, you should not consider choosing your lawyer exclusively on price. If your case is very aggressive and argumentative, you may want to consider hiring a firm that has the resources to handle a high volume of work.

If you are interested in scheduling a consultation with one of our attorneys, give us a call or send us an email. We prefer in person consultations, but also offer telephone or Zoom consults; simply let us know your preference when scheduling.

Disclaimer: Please be advised that the consultation in and of itself does not create an ongoing attorney-client relationship, absent an executed retainer agreement or the express written consent of Marcellino & Tyson, PLLC.