TIP 4 "Getting Instructions"
Inexperienced counsel often use the excuse that they can't make a decision on a matter until they "get directions" from their client. This is frequently a cop-out. The lawyer, not the client, has the sole discretion with regard to granting accommodations which prejudice the client's rights or do not directly influence the merits of this situation to the hand. This would include requests adjournments, for time expansion, provision for disclosure in a different type than requested or procedural issues.
TIP 17 Soothing Your Clients
As soon as your customer has quite a difficult problem which is much more emotional than legal, consider using the phrase "That's a really hard issue to solve". For instance, where your client is complaining or the other side is saying things about your client, employing this phrase helps clients to move on with the difficulties at hand. Lawyers have reported that the phrase that was simple really works.
TIP 2 Why Clients Choose You
58 percent of people found a lawyer through an individual recommendation;
TIP 1 Feel it in Your Gut
If you meet with a customer and you feel it in your gut that there is something wrong with this customer, listen to your body and don't take on the document. Typically, your first instinct will be right. There are plenty of lawyers out there to help that client.
