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Preparing for Attorney Consultations: What to Expect and How to Make the Most of Your Meeting

Welcome to another special edition of The Best of Johnston County Podcast, an episode in our series known as “Ask Jonathan Breeden Anything.” In this insightful episode, we dive deep into a topic that many find daunting—attorney consultations. Raena Burch, the social media coordinator at Breeden Law Office, joins to ask detailed questions about the consultation process, particularly useful for those embarking on a divorce journey.

What is a Consultation?

A consultation, also known as a case overview, is a meeting where someone with a legal issue speaks with an attorney to discuss their situation. It’s the first step in identifying whether the attorney can help and understanding your legal rights, and Raena asks some very pertinent questions to clarify this.

What to Expect During a Consultation

In the episode, we cover several key aspects of what to expect during a consultation:

  1. Purpose: A consultation helps you understand your legal rights, options, and the next steps if you decide to move forward.
  2. Duration: Consultations usually last between 30 minutes and an hour, depending on the complexity of the case.
  3. Topics Covered: The discussion will focus on your story, the jurisdiction, your legal issues, and your goals. This gives you the opportunity to start building a relationship with the attorney’s office and determine if it’s the right fit for you.

Building a Relationship with Your Attorney

A significant part of a consultation is the initial relationship-building. This episode emphasizes the importance of feeling comfortable with your attorney. We discuss how essential it is to feel listened to and understood, especially during emotionally and financially stressful times such as divorce.

Costs of Consultations

We also delve into the costs involved with attorney consultations and what you can expect to pay. While some law firms offer free consultations, particularly for personal injury or social security disability cases, others, like family law offices, often charge a fee that can vary widely.

Why Multiple Consultations Might Be Necessary

Should you consult with more than one attorney? The answer is yes, especially if you’re not comfortable with the first attorney you meet. Different attorneys offer different perspectives, and it’s crucial to find one that suits your needs, both professionally and personally.

Potential Conflicts of Interest

Raena brings up an interesting point about conflicts of interest. Once an attorney has consulted with one party in a case, they generally cannot consult with the opposing party. We explore the implications of this and why it might be a strategic move for some clients.

Preparing for Your Consultation

Preparation is key. We advise gathering all relevant information about your assets and liabilities before your consultation. Knowing details about your property, income, and budget will make your meeting more productive and help the attorney assess your situation more accurately.

Conclusion

This episode is a must-listen for anyone facing legal challenges or considering consulting with an attorney. Packed with valuable information and practical advice, it aims to demystify the consultation process.Ready to make an informed decision about legal consultations? Tune in now to this episode of The Best of Johnston County Podcast. Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, or wherever you get your podcasts, and start your journey to finding the right legal support today.

AND MORE TOPICS COVERED IN THE FULL INTERVIEW!!! You can check that out and subscribe to YouTube.

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