Your relationship with your family law lawyer has to be built on a foundation of mutual trust. A family law firm like the GOLDSTEIN Divorce & Family Law Group brings a wealth of experience and legal knowledge to your case, and can help protect your rights, resolve your family law challenges efficiently and effectively, and advocate for the best possible outcome for your unique situation. Allan Goldstein and his colleagues make that commitment to you, and will work fervently to uphold it.
It is also important to remember that trust is a two-way street. Your lawyer needs to be able to trust that you, the client, are being completely forthright with him in all areas of your case, and that you are not leaving out important information that may be relevant to your situation; your lawyer needs to be able to prepare for negotiations and courtroom proceedings armed with all the facts. You and your lawyer need to function as a team, and work together based on mutual trust and confidence.
For that reason, always provide your lawyer with all of the information relevant to your case. Sometimes, a client will want to leave something out because it does not reflect favorably on him or her (or a loved one), but keep in mind that your conversations with your lawyer are protected by legal privilege so that you can speak freely with your lawyer. Having all the information will allow your lawyer to create a complete picture of your situation and work toward the outcome you need, while being prepared for any possible contingency. Being less than forthright with your lawyer can end up hurting your case. Bring everything to the table; that includes the good, the bad, and the ugly.
Another important guideline when dealing with your family law lawyer is to make the most of your time together. Your lawyer is on your side, but you are not his only client. When you have a phone conference or an in-person meeting with your lawyer, a little preparation can ensure that your conversations are as productive as possible. Be ready to discuss all of your questions and concerns. Compile any documents or information that you may need for your meeting. This way, your meetings can cover all of the topics you and your lawyer need to discuss, and will minimize the need for frequent follow-ups. When you are prepared and ready for each meeting, you can help your lawyer tackle your case effectively and efficiently.
You can also take other steps to ensure that your meetings with your lawyer are productive. Do not be late for meetings, and if you have to cancel, give at least 24 hours’ notice (or more, if you can). If you treat your lawyer’s time respectfully, rest assured that your lawyer will return the favor when it comes to your valuable time and make every effort to return calls promptly and answer your questions fully.
Any time your situation changes during the divorce process, make your lawyer is aware of it. This can mean something as simple as a change in your address or employment, or something as major as a restraining order or an arrest. Your lawyer needs to be kept in the loop as your family’s circumstances and needs evolve over time.
Finally, just like you would follow a doctor’s prescription, so too should you listen carefully to your lawyer’s advice. If you are confused, ask questions, and be sure you understand what your lawyer is telling you; then, work diligently to follow through on his instructions and guidance.
Following the suggestions above can help you and your lawyer become an effective team. You’ll have an ally who understands your unique situation, and who respects your time, your financial investment in their services, and the trust you’ve placed in them.