What Are The Duties and Responsibilities of a Lawyer?

So, what do you expect from a legal lawyer when you hire them? Simple, you want them to – 

• Explain your options, 
• Discuss the strategy for your case, and 
• Give you an idea of the timeline for key events. 

It’s important to feel confident that your lawyer can effectively represent you.

If you’re unsure about what’s going on with your case, you might think your lawyer isn’t doing a good job, even when they actually are. 

So, keep in mind that poor communication can cause stress and misunderstandings. It’s important that your lawyer keeps you updated on your case’s progress.

Each state has ethical rules that lawyers must follow. Generally, these rules require lawyers to:

• Stay completely loyal to their clients
• Work within the law while representing their clients
• Keep their clients’ information private
• Prioritize their clients’ interests over their own.

Every state has an agency that enforces these rules. If a lawyer breaks them, the agency can fine the lawyer, make them pay back stolen money, suspend their license to practice law, or even take away their license entirely. 

Disbarment, which is losing the right to practice law, is very rare and usually happens only if a lawyer commits serious crimes or repeatedly steals from clients.

Lawyers Should Protect Their Client’s Rights and Interests in the Legal Systems. 

Lawyers are trained and licensed professionals who practice law. They play a crucial role in protecting the legal rights of individuals, organizations, and society. Their duties can vary depending on their area of specialization, but generally include:

Advising Clients: 

Lawyers provide legal advice by reviewing their clients’ cases, explaining the laws that apply, and suggesting the best actions to take. They help clients understand their legal options, including the risks and benefits, so they can make informed decisions.

Representing Clients in Court: 

Lawyers represent their clients in court by arguing their cases and presenting evidence. They need to ensure that judges and juries understand their clients’ positions and must be well-versed in relevant laws, evidence rules, and court procedures.

Handling Settlements: 

Many disputes are resolved without going to trial. Lawyers negotiate settlements between their clients and other parties to resolve disputes efficiently.

Drafting Legal Documents: 

Lawyers draft various legal documents, such as contracts and wills. They make sure these documents are legally binding, clear, and align with their clients’ goals.

You and Your Lawyer Should Have An Understanding Of Legal Fees

It’s important to understand the legal fees involved before you hire any type of lawyer. Make sure your fee agreement is in writing and that you fully understand it. 

Doing so can help you avoid common issues that clients often have with legal bills.

Here are some common complaints:

• The bill is higher than expected or different from what was agreed upon.
• The bill isn’t itemized, so it’s unclear what work was done to justify the charges.
• The lawyer charged their rate for work mostly done by a paralegal.
• The lawyer didn’t do a good job, and the client doesn’t want to pay a large bill.
• The lawyer overcharged for simple tasks, like billing 30 minutes for a two-minute phone call.

In some states a written retainer agreement is needed, which must detail the billing system and charges. 

Even if your state doesn’t require it, it’s wise to ask for a written agreement.

The agreement should outline how often you’ll be billed and include an itemized statement so you can see what you’re being charged for. 

If you’re paying your lawyer on a contingency fee basis (they only get paid if you win), make sure you understand how the fee is calculated and who will cover any costs that come up during the lawsuit.

Whether you are hiring medical malpractice lawyers, wrongful death lawyers, or personal injury attorneys, consider each factor before making a payment. 

Is Your Lawyer Responsible for Discussing Everything Involved? 

Ultimately, your lawyer is responsible for discussing your options and any settlement offers with you, allowing you to make the final decisions about your case.

Specifically, your lawyer should:

• Recognize that you are in control.
• Explain what you can expect.
• Let you know when key events will happen.
• Tell you what your case might be worth.
• Highlight what’s important in your case.
• Estimate the costs involved.
• Help you weigh the cost-effectiveness of different strategies.
• Explain any delays or changes in dates.
• Prepare you for your deposition and trial.
• Discuss the risks of going to trial versus settling.

As a client, you also have responsibilities that can help your case, such as:

• Checking on everything you agree to do.
• Making a list of legal questions to ask.
• Preparing a written summary and a proper timeline of events.
• Understanding that your lawyer must keep your information confidential.
• Respecting your lawyer’s time and schedule.
• Letting your lawyer know if you’ll be unavailable.
• Paying your bills on time.
• Informing your lawyer about any new developments.
• Providing requested information promptly.
• Sharing all relevant information with your lawyer.
• Assisting with research or tasks that don’t require legal training.
• Not expecting your lawyer to be a personal friend.

A good working relationship is essential when you need a lawyer, even if you follow everything correctly. Further, you need to find yourself at odds with your attorney. 

Doing so can help ensure that your lawyer serves your best interest.