1. There are several ways to find a lawyer, but personal recommendation is best. You can also search online directories which provide general information.
2. It is important to ask about fees upfront, as lawyers may charge hourly rates from $50-$1000, require retainers, or take contingency fees which are usually 30-40% of a settlement.
3. The attorney-client relationship is built on trust, as anything a client tells their lawyer is confidential under attorney-client privilege, along with doctor-patient and priest-church member privileges. A lawyer's job is to provide good legal advice regarding issues like whether to sue or accept offers.
Report
Share
Report
Share
1 of 8
More Related Content
Unit 3 notes 1
2. How to Find a Lawyer
1. Recommendation (best way)
2. Online or law directory
Usually give general information
3. Lawyers weren’t always allowed to advertise
Forbidden by the American Bar Association
Supreme Court ruled in 1977 that advertising
was protected by 1st Amendment (freedom of
speech)
4. Ask how much a lawyer charges up front
Some give free consultation- meeting to
determine if you have a case
Per Hour- Can be $50-$1000 or more
Retainer- Advance payment for future
services
Contingency Fee- Usually between 30-40%
of settlement
5. Working with a lawyer
Trust is very important
Attorney-Client relationship- Whatever the
client tells his/her lawyer is confidential
Other privileged relationships by law:
1. Doctor- Patient
2. Priest/Pastor- Church Member
6. Lawyer’s job is to advise/give good legal
advice
To sue or not
To accept offer (settlement/plea bargain)
7. To become a lawyer:
Undergrad degree, LSAT, then Law School
Must pass the bar exam
If a lawyer breaks the code of ethics, they can
be disbarred or sued
8. Most lawyers are actually not litigators- an
attorney that specializes in court room
proceedings
