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subject: First Appointment With The Family Law Attorney San Jose [print this page]


In the initial or first meeting between the client and the divorce lawyer there are a lot of things have to be followed.

First appointment is especially important because the first impression is usually the most lasting for both the client and the Family Law Attorney San Jose. Those who are looking for divorce attorney should consider a lot of things. Now let us know more about the initial meeting with the divorce lawyer. During the initial telephone call, the client's address and telephone number will be taken by the lawyers receptionist or whoever attends the clients call.

Unless the client asks that a letter from the law firm not be sent to the address given, the telephone call will be followed with a letter detailing the directions to the office and date and time of the appointment. The client might be willing to share the purpose of the appointment. For example, if a new client knows that he wants the attorney to begin divorce proceedings, then the letter may list paperwork that should be brought to the first appointment. If possible, copies of bank records, income tax forms, and a list of property owned, a list of debts owed, and a list of living expenses should be brought to the first meeting along with any other pertinent information that is available. Sometimes, though, the first appointment may just be a consultation to see if the person wishes to become a client and the attorney wants to be hired by the person.

During the first meeting, the attorney will usually spend most of the time listening to the prospective client's issues and concerns. As soon as the client and attorney have made the decision to work together, the attorney may ask the client to read and sign a fee agreement, often called a retainer. A retainer should explain the rights of the client, and the duties the attorney has to the client. The retainer is essentially a contract between the client and the Family Law Attorney San Jose. Failure of either party to comply with the retainer agreement may be the basis for the breach of contract by the client or attorney, or even legal malpractice by the attorney. A breach of contract is usually referred as a breakdown, without official excuse, to live up to a significant promise made in a contract. Legal malpractice is defined as professional misconduct or unreasonable lack of skill. This word is usually applied to bad, incomplete, or unethical work or behavior of an attorney or other professional. The retainer agreement should clearly describe the work that the attorney is being hired to do, the hourly fee the attorney is charging, and the costs involved.

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