My law practice involves representing businesses and individuals, and I am always bringing new clients to the practice. So what does that process look like? It generally starts with a referral – either someone recommending me to the new client or the new client finding me after doing online research. What happens next is a conversation. I speak to the client, usually by phone at first, to introduce myself and meet the client. The goal is to determine whether this is a client I believe I can help and that I would like to represent. If I can’t help a client, for instance if the matter involves expertise outside of my practice area, then I will usually make a referral to a colleague, if the client asks for one. But if I do determine that I can help the client and want to work with the client, then we begin the very important discussion of outlining a strategy and an appropriate budget. If, but only if, I believe I can help a client, I want to represent that client, we share a strategic approach, and we can agree on an appropriate budget for the representation, do I have a new client.
There are plenty of fish in the sea. Do not hire an attorney without having the important dialogue that includes your goals, how the case will be handled strategically, and what it is likely to cost.