Most lawyers provide free or low-cost consultations, which you must take advantage of, if you want to find a competent legal representative. An interview with one is an opportunity to learn about your legal circumstances and the qualifications of the lawyer. To ensure that you are hiring the right person, it pays to use your consultation to know the attorney better. With this in mind, here are some of the most important questions you have to ask a potential Hong Kong attorney during an interview.
How long have you been practicing law?
It is important to know how long the lawyer has been in service, because it takes years of practice for someone to become an expert in their field of practice. Someone who is fresh out of law school could be competent but in many cases, someone who has been in service for at least 10 years can be a better candidate.
Do you have experience in handling cases similar to mine?
At the very least, you need a lawyer who has worked on a case similar to yours. Relevant experience matters in picking a lawyer to represent you. Feel free to ask for details of their experience. Specifically, learn about the outcomes of the cases they have handled.
What is your approach in negotiating?
Ask the lawyer about how they handle negotiations, dispute resolutions, and contract matters. A good lawyer must not always be aggressive in their strategies and goals; they have to be knowledgeable in creating fair and balanced agreements. While they have to focus on your best interests, they must also uphold integrity in the way they handle cases.
How do you bill the fees and costs?
Lastly, ask about the lawyer’s fee structure and billing process. The costs involved in hiring a lawyer usually depend on your case. Ask the attorney about their hourly rate, flat fee, statutory fees, etc. Don’t forget to ask an estimate of the total cost and your payment options. This step should help you determine whether you can afford their service or not.
Ask these questions during consultation with your lawyer to know whether you are talking to the right person or you should schedule an appointment with someone else.
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