During an initial consultation with an attorney, you should come prepared with the facts and issues surrounding the case. From these facts, the attorney should be able to give you a reasonable initial evaluation of how your case may develop. However, this is also a time for you to ask questions about the process your case will follow. Here are thirteen questions you should consider when looking to hire a South Dakota family law attorney:
Question #1 - What is your hourly rate and what is the hourly rate for your staff who may be working on my case?
Question #2 - What retainer will your require?
Question #3 - Will you provide a written fee agreement regarding any fees or expenses for my case?
Question #4 - What expenses or additional fees will be billed to me?
Question #5 - What makes your firm unique and different from other law firms?
Question #6 - How “tech savvy” are your attorneys and how do they keep pace with changing technology?
Question #7 - What are your client communications polices?
Question #8 - Will I be copied on all documents pertaining to my case?
Question #9 - What is your preferred strategy or “philosophy” for handling a divorce case?
Question #10 - How long will my case take?
Question #11 - Other than yourself, what other people in your firm would work on my case?
Question #12 - What professional organizations do you belong to?
Question #13 - Does your firm carry malpractice insurance?
