How To Become A Lawyer

TIP 1 Feel it in Your Gut

If you meet with a client and you feel it in your gut that there's something wrong with this client, listen to your body and don't take on the document. Typically, your instinct will probably be right. There are loads of other lawyers out there to help that customer.

TIP 9 Fundamental Information For Clients

Produce a file of basic information which may be handed out to clients at their initial interview. It could also be provided in digital form.

TIP 4 "Getting Directions"

Inexperienced counselor frequently use the excuse that they cannot make a decision on an issue until they "get directions" from their client. This is a cop-out. Not the client, the lawyer, has the sole discretion with respect to awarding the other side accommodations that prejudice the client's rights or do not directly influence the merits of this situation. This would include reasonable requests for time extension, provision for disclosure, adjournments in another form than procedural or requested issues.

TIP 18 Get it Off Your Chest

Customers, especially matrimonial customers, often need a way to tell their story to other people. Think about different forums in which a customer can get it off his chest. Consider using social workers, psychologists, mediation, Dispute Resolution Officer hearings, Judicial Dispute Resolution conventions and arbitration as ways to allow a struggling customer.

TIP 21 Return of Original Documents

When you've finished a document, give back original documents to your client. You will not need to keep them and you shift the responsibility for safekeeping back to the customer.

TIP 22 You Are Not Right for Everybody

Attempt to create your legal practice match you and your style rather than attempting to change yourself to fit somebody else's idea of what family law practice ought to be. Stay true to your principles and values or try and change who you are to accommodate a customer. Do not try to become a round peg in a square hole. There are lots of customers, some and some match don't. There are lawyers who will help.