A client can have many reasons for seeking a consultation with a family law lawyer. A consultation may require only a single visit to obtain legal advice, or it may take a series of visits. Here are examples of some recent consultations:
A client needs to be able to trust the lawyer selected to respond to the questions competently, confidentially, and at a reasonable cost. Requesting a consultation for half an hour’s time isn’t sufficient for the client to learn about what the lawyer has to offer, or for the lawyer to understand the background and context of the client’s questions. As is often the case in family law matters, a question is really only one piece of the puzzle. To respond properly to a question, the lawyer may have to understand what all the related circumstances are, what people are involved, and what their roles are in the situation. The lawyer should have the opportunity to explain to the client the risks and consequences of any answer provided in reply to the issue raised. Other times, though, a simple question really does have a simple response.
To respond properly to a question, the lawyer may have to understand what all the related circumstances are, what people are involved, and what their roles are in the situation. The lawyer should have the opportunity to explain to the client the risks and consequences of any answer provided in reply to the issue raised. Other times, though, a simple question really does have a simple response.
A family law lawyer cannot act for both parties to a conflict. Until the lawyer is advised of the legal name(s) of the others involved in the dispute, the lawyer will be unable to meet the client for a consultation. A consultation cannot proceed without the client providing current photo identification to the lawyer at or prior to a face-to-face meeting.
Being able to trust the professional giving advice means the client will be attentive and engaged, and leave empowered. Building trust with a lawyer means the lawyer:
Urgent matters and long-term concerns require a lawyer experienced enough to know which approach will best assist the client, and how to effectively bring the client’s needs to the attention of the other spouse or partner. The lawyer offers her good judgment and common sense, valuable skills and tools, to support the client in making appropriate decisions.
A lawyer first stepping into a client’s world needs to become acquainted with more than what is currently happening. To understand the present circumstances, the financial picture from both sides needs to be understood. It would be bad business to conduct a transaction without due diligence; so too would providing legal advice without knowing all the facts—financial and other—and the client’s needs.
From the moment a client contacts a lawyer, the identity of the client is confidential and cannot be disclosed by the lawyer without the permission of the client.
Read Lorisa Stein’s Privacy Policy.
You asked me excellent questions to help me think about my own future needs.
In our confidential sessions, you helped me gain the perspective for where I have been and opened my eyes to possibilities which may lie ahead. Thank you.
You more than met my expectations resolving all matters collaboratively. You spoke to me with respect and without judgment. Most importantly, you believed in me.
Not going in with guns blazing makes good financial sense. We could focus on the sustainability of our family’s future relationships for our children’s benefit.
The collaborative process kept us honest with each other. Our child arrangement was designed for us and works for our family. The kids are safe and the smiles are back on their faces. Thank you Lorisa.
You’re a strong advocate. You listened to what I and my children needed. You achieved it for us in an efficient and cost effective manner.
You not only understand the pressures I face, you were able to beautifully simplify my needs once we separate.
My business continues to thrive through our separation. Keeping the business thriving and my family properly supported after separation was brilliant!
Your kindness conveying a tough but necessary message was much appreciated. I will keep in touch as situations arise for which I need your expertise.
I now understand the value of having a family law lawyer develop the separation agreement. It is comprehensive, practical, and tailored to my family and our business. We can continue to work together while our personal lives remain private.