How Do You Decide Whether to Take a Case? (2023 Update)

Before taking on a new case, we meet with the potential client to discuss their current legal situation and future needs.

There are three goals to the initial meeting: first, establishing that the matter is within our area of expertise [[LINK: practice areas]], second, ensuring that there are no conflicts of interest, and third, establishing that we are a good fit.

The first two are perfunctory; the third is the most important. We work to develop a long-term relationship with our clients, so it is important that we are a good fit. The “fit” between and lawyer and client is crucial. You should feel comfortable working with us, and we must feel comfortable working with you for the relationship to be successful.

If we believe that we can provide representation based on their specific legal need and are a good fit, we will agree to represent that individual or business as a client. If we don’t think we are a good fit, we will refer the prospective client to another lawyer who we think may be able to help.

If after meeting, the prospective client desires to retain us, and we also believe that there is a good fit, then we will bring on that new client. At that point we forward a retainer agreement to the new client. Section 6148 of the California Business and Professions Code requires us to obtain a written agreement for services for any matter where it is reasonably foreseeable that total attorney fees will exceed one thousand dollars.  Even if California law did not require a written contract, we believe that it is a good practice to outline what each of us will do as we work together because it helps protect against misunderstandings.

Our representation formally commences upon receipt of the signed copy of the letter confirming and approving the terms of our representation.