What to Expect When You're....Calling a Law Firm
The Pegasus - Lex et Lux: The Law, Illuminated
Calling in to a law firm for the first time can be intimidating. I know first-hand the nerves that can go along with walking into the unknown. Whether your life is about to change due to a divorce, a poor decision made, or you are simply planning for the future, it can be scary, and not an easy call to make. My hope is with this blog, you will have a better idea of what to expect when the time comes.
Your call may be answered by a legal secretary or, at our firm, a paralegal. We will gather some information from you, including contact information for you, names for any other people who may be involved in your case, and we will set up a time for you to speak with an attorney. We will also be asking what it is you need to speak with the attorney about. This is not because we are nosy and want to know your business, but is a necessary question simply so we can ask the appropriate follow up questions, get you set up with the attorney best suited for your situation, and to give the attorney a chance to prepare for your consultation and be able to make the most of their time with you. You do not need to give us full details, just a general idea of what your circumstances are.
Consultations with attorneys at our firm are free, though that isn’t the case at all firms. Often times we are also asked about retainer amounts, attorney fees, etc. While having the knowledge about costs upfront is beneficial, until you meet with the attorney and have had a chance to discuss all issues at hand, it is not always cut and dry. Rest assured, at your consultation, the attorney will discuss costs with you before you sign anything and are stuck in a situation you aren’t prepared for.
It is also helpful to bring in documentation or other information before your consultation. This may be anything from documents you have been served, timelines and diary entries of events, or addresses and phone numbers of people involved. If you are able to share documents with us before your consultation, it helps the attorney prepare and make the most of your time together. If you don’t have any documents, don’t worry! Sometimes a potential client just doesn’t have any documentation to bring in and that is okay, too. No matter what, we try to meet potential clients where they are and guide them through the process. Beginning a journey with an attorney can be emotional and stressful, and we want the initial consultation to alleviate that stress, not enhance it.
We are here to help you navigate the situation you are facing with kindness and compassion. We want you to feel supported and confident knowing you are making the best decisions for your circumstances. You are not alone in this process. We are here to walk alongside you every step of the way, helping you move forward with clarity and peace of mind.
