There is not another profession that is hated as much as the
law. Despite the widespread discontent expressed against lawyers, we all need
attorneys at some time during our lives. A lack of knowledge and popular
clichés do not help when the time comes to meet lawyers and interview them. We
all need to ask intelligent questions. In this blog, New York based corporate
lawyer Hartley Bernstein suggests a
series of questions you should ask when you interview an attorney:
(a)
Are you experienced?
Be direct. If you are seeking legal help to incorporate
a business, do not be shy. Ask your attorney if he or she has ever worked on an
incorporation case.
(b)
Are you connected?
It is smarter to plump for lawyers who can diagnose your
problems and tackle minor issues without bothering you. For instance, if your
case has specialized needs - such as copyright law – it is advisable to ask
your lawyer if he or she is well connected. It is not fun – and certainly not
cheap – to hunt down for newer lawyers.
(c)
Have you worked for clients in my industry?
It is advisable to work with attorneys who are familiar
with your industry. They are usually in a better position to understand the ins
and outs of your case and produce convincing arguments. It helps you in a
second way, too. If the lawyer has worked for your competition, you will have
to rethink hiring him or her – it is not fun for your sensitive information to
be leaked to an opponent.
(d)
How flexible are you in billing?
There is currently a glut of lawyers. Too many of them
are working in large cities. This has created a buyers’ market. It provides you
with an opportunity to negotiate fees; it was unthinkable only a few years ago.
It is wise to take advantage of this market and be straight about payment. Ask
your lawyer if he or she is comfortable with billing.
New York based corporate lawyer Hartley Bernstein is of the
opinion that it is wise to ask experience, connects, previous clientele and
payments while interviewing your attorney.
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