11/15/2024
I’m still recovering from surgery and I find myself reflecting on the purpose and goals of the firm.
This is a bit of a reflection but I’m considering more focused posts as I figure out how to best express and share this information.
One thing I’ve always wanted to do is find a way to educate folks about Family Law and it’s application to their lives. Frequently this information would be best to know well before they would actually need it.
For me, I think the institution of marriage, its historical foundation and development overtime, along with present day implications should be taught at the high school level.
Frequently, my clients truly learn what they signed up for only at the time they realize it’s time to opt out. This isn’t a criticism of them, it’s a glaring flaw in practical education.
This may turn into a blog style series over time. But I’m thinking of topics like this:
Selecting your attorney.
Key consideration: Do your shopping in order to make an informed and well reasoned decision.
Family law is wide open with many possible outcomes. Attorneys come in many styles, personalities and approaches. Reviews are a place to start but do not tell the whole story.
It is important to do some preparation before you make a decision to hire.
One of the most important things to remember is your attorney works for you. We are experts but, especially in Family Law, this is your life and you’ll be living with the consequences, not your lawyer.
I recommend speaking with at least 3 lawyers before you hire. It is important your goals align and your personalities mesh well.
Are you comfortable disclosing your deeply personal information to this person?
Do they treat you and your money with respect?
Do they see you as an individual and do they care?
Ask a lot of questions about fees and costs, including how far your retainer, or initial down payment, will get you. It may shock you how far $5,000, $10,000 or even more WON’T get you.
Your initial retainer is likely to between $2,500- $10,000.00 depending on the complexity of your case.
Do not be surprised if they can’t or won’t be able to answer this question.
Know their billing structure well before you sign on and make sure you understand what happens if you can’t pay their bills.
Sometimes firms require “trial retainers”. This is typically a substantial advance payment due something like a month or two before your final hearing— i.e. another large bill during the middle of your case.
It may be their policy that they will quit representing you if you cannot come up with another large payment.
I’ve helped many people after their initial choice of representatives quit for this reason. Be aware of the fine print!
I have developed a deep distain for the billable hour model because of this reason, but that will be covered in another post.
Bosworth Law does not use retainers or billable hours for any services, ever.
Bosworth Law will always offer free consultations. It is so important that a client is empowered to make an informed decision.
Nothing about this is intended to be a sales pitch or direct legal advice. I would never want a client to be “sold” on my involvement in a case.
Hiring an attorney is an important and personal choice. It is also a business decision.
If this was helpful I would appreciate feedback in the comments or via email at [email protected].
If there are certain topics anyone would be interested in future posts, please let me know.
