GUIDELINES FOR CONSULTATION
I am pleased to have the opportunity to meet and discuss with you possible representation. At this point, I have not been retained by you, but would like to acquaint you with the manner in which your case will be handled. The purpose of a consultation is to give me an opportunity to acquaint myself with you and you with me. It is not designed to give or provide solutions, only identify the problem and suggest a course of action.
I understand that the dispute that brings you to require my services may be stressful and emotionally draining. Expressing your feelings can be helpful as we prepare your case, but it should also be noted, I am not a psychologist, and if you are experiencing serious emotional distress, I would urge you to seek counseling by someone trained to address those concerns. My focus is best left to tending to your legal needs and your ability to make sound decisions that will affect the outcome.
At the outset, it is important to me that you understand how I charge for my services. Money matters are not pleasant to discuss, but good policy dictates forthright discussion of the costs at the beginning and this document is provided, in part to acquaint you with my policy in this regard.
Initially, I offer a free 15 minute consultation, unless you have discussed the matter with me previously over the telephone and then made an appointment. Any problem you might have should be identified and a course of action proposed during this session. After this time, I begin to charge for my services at my normal rate of $350.00 per hour, pro-rated every 10th of an hour, to be paid prior to your leaving today, (see attached agreement) unless we are talking about a case that calls for a contingency fee, such as a personal injury matter, wherein no charge will be requested for an initial consultation, and the only fee that will ever be required will come out of a settlement or court judgment; or a criminal matter which has a flat fee for services.
After 15 minutes, I will have an idea of your case, and a course of action that needs to be followed. I will also advise you if I do not think your matter requires any further attention, and will advise you if you disagree, to seek another opinion. Reasonable people differ on situations and perspectives.
If you choose to retain my services, a written contract for your signature will be provided to you explaining the terms of our agreement. Please keep in mind, that the retainer is not going to be the entire investment required to complete your case, and you will be required, once the funds from the retainer are exhausted to make payments on the balance until the services are completely paid in accord with the terms of the written agreement.
Upon request, I will answer any questions you have in this regard during the consultation.
GUIDELINES FOR CLIENTS
IN OFFICE AND TELEPHONE CONFERENCES
When you come to the office for a conference with me, please bring any records or documents that may be relevant to the purposes of our conference or that I have ask you to bring.
Prepare a list of questions so you will not forget to discuss an important matter which may require another conference, telephone call or email.
General Tips
Maintain a file with all correspondences, court pleadings, and mailings from my office.
Always feel free to raise any questions you may have about services or fees. The sooner problems are addressed; the quicker they can be resolved. You have executed a contract for my services that is a major obligation, and I do not want any misunderstandings that would jeopardize our relationship. As is stated in every contract I have ever presented:
Always, always, always be forthcoming and honest to me. I can be most effective in representing you with full knowledge of all the facts and circumstances concerning your case. If unfavorable or damaging information comes to light in the later stages of the litigation, it almost will certainly have an adverse impact on the resolution of your case.
Always dress appropriately for court. Never wear shorts, tank tops, shirt tails out, pants below waist, or clothes that appear dirty. Never chew gum in court, and leave your cell phone in the car. Tattoos, though you may adore them on your body, should be covered as much as possible. Jurors and Judges tend to not favor them or reach a conclusion that is wrong. Remember, Jurors and Judges are people too!
Lastly, please follow my advice. You have retained me because I have the experience and expertise needed to help you as efficiently and economically as possible.
Thank you for the opportunity to assist you.
Sincerely,
Charles C. Grile
Attorney at Law
Ga. Bar No. 312125