What Your Attorney Does Not Tell You

I can provide general information about the legal profession. Here are a few things that your attorney may not explicitly tell you but you should be aware of:

1. Legal Fees and Costs: Attorneys often charge for their time, and these fees can add up quickly. Ask your attorney for an estimate of their fees and any additional costs (like court filing fees or expert witness fees) so you can budget accordingly.
2. Communication Expectations: Your attorney may not always be available to answer your questions or provide updates on your case immediately. It’s important to establish communication expectations upfront, including how often you can expect to hear from your attorney and the best way to contact them.
3. Risks and Potential Outcomes: Your attorney should discuss the strengths and weaknesses of your case with you, as well as the potential outcomes and risks involved in pursuing legal action. It’s important to understand that there are no guarantees in the legal system, and your attorney may not be able to predict the outcome of your case with certainty.
4. Alternative Dispute Resolution: Litigation can be a lengthy and expensive process. Your attorney may not discuss alternative dispute resolution options like mediation or arbitration, which can often be faster and more cost-effective ways to resolve disputes.
5. Confidentiality: Your attorney is bound by rules of confidentiality, which means that they cannot disclose information about your case to third parties without your consent. However, there are some exceptions to this rule, such as when the attorney has a legal obligation to report certain information (e.g., suspected child abuse) or when disclosure is necessary to provide legal services (e.g., sharing information with expert witnesses or co-counsel).
6. Ethical Obligations: Attorneys are bound by a code of ethics that requires them to act in the best interests of their clients and to provide competent and diligent representation. However, attorneys may not always disclose potential conflicts of interest or other ethical considerations that could impact their ability to represent you effectively.
7. Settlement Offers: If the opposing party makes a settlement offer, your attorney may not disclose all of the details or advise you on whether to accept or reject the offer. It’s important to discuss settlement options with your attorney and to make an informed decision based on your circumstances.

It’s important to have open and honest communication with your attorney throughout the legal process. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to ask. Your attorney is there to help you navigate the legal system and achieve the best possible outcome in your case.