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How to Stay on Top of Your Case after you Hire a Lawyer

Rashar Morton • Dec 08, 2018

When you have a legal matter to resolve, it often makes sense to retain the services of an attorney. Many legal issues are far too complicated and confusing to resolve on your own and having skilled legal counsel by your side gives you the guidance and direction you need to secure a positive outcome.

Your attorney can handle your case from start to finish. They can handle important tasks like gathering facts and evidence, putting together a strong case on your behalf, bringing in expert witnesses, drafting and reviewing contracts and other documents, negotiating with other parties, and of course, trying your case in court (when necessary).

Although your lawyer does the majority of the work in the case, this does not mean that you, as the client, should disengage from the process. The success of your case hinges on cooperation between you and your attorney, and your attorney may ask you to do some things from time to time to move your case forward toward a successful conclusion.

Staying on Top of Your Case after you Hire an Attorney

Once you have retained the services of a reputable attorney, there are some important things you should do to keep on top of your case:

  1. Be Honest with your Attorney at all Times

From the outset, tell your lawyer everything you know about your legal matter, even the details that may not be helpful. Your lawyer needs to know the whole picture, so they are able to fully address all relevant factors. If you leave out key details, this will hurt your case down the road. Remember, your lawyer is your confidant, and they are obligated to keep everything you discuss confidential. Be totally open and honest; and above all, never give your lawyer false or misleading information.

  1. Inform your Attorney Immediately when New Information Comes to Light

While the case is progressing, you may become aware of previously unknown facts and evidence that could be important to the success of your case. When you learn sometime new, do NOT assume your lawyer is already aware of it. Inform them immediately of anything you find out, so they can make use of the information (if it’s positive) or take steps to mitigate the damage (if it’s negative).

  1. Do Everything your Attorney Asks you to Do

You may be asked to perform various tasks, such as obtaining or verifying certain pieces of information, taking a medical exam, or doing other things that will be helpful for your case. Make it a priority to follow through on everything you have committed to doing ASAP. The sooner you complete your tasks, the quicker your case can be concluded.

  1. Don’t be Afraid to Ask Questions

One of the most important aspects of the attorney-client relationship is communication. You should expect your lawyer to communicate with you regularly and provide frequent updates on the progress of your case. You should also expect your lawyer to be responsive and answer any questions or concerns you may have. If you are ever unclear or confused about something, ask your lawyer. It is their job to help you understand what is happening with the case.

  1. Maintain Discretion while the Case is Ongoing

Many people like to share and discuss what is happening in their lives on Facebook and other social media platforms. If you are an avid social media user, bear in mind that what you post could be used against you if it is something related to your case. While you are involved in a legal matter, it might be a good idea to stay off of social media until it is resolved. Either way, be very careful what you post, and make it a point to only discuss your case with your attorney and people close to you whom you know you can trust.

Speak with an Experienced Virginia Attorney

If you have an important legal matter, you deserve to be represented by experienced and skilled lawyers who will treat you with respect. At Buck, Toscano & Tereskerz, we work closely with our clients, taking the time to listen and understand their needs and concerns, so we can develop the most effective and cost-efficient legal solution. Our attorneys have extensive knowledge in a wide range of practice areas; including personal injury, family law, estate planning, real estate, and many others. We put our in-depth experience to work to provide the strong legal representation our clients need and deserve.

To schedule a consultation with one of our attorneys, contact our Charlottesville office today at 434.977.7977. You may also send a secure and confidential message through our online contact form.

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