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TIPS TO CLIENTS ON HOW TO SAVE ON LEGAL FEES
by William J. Leininger
Lawyers are expensive - that's a well known fact. Why? A lawyer must complete college and
law school, then pass the Bar exam before he can start practicing law. To keep his license
he must also take courses in continuing legal education. This schooling is expensive and
necessary. The law is complex and getting more so. The overhead of running a business -
office rent, supplies, secretary - also is expensive.
Nevertheless, there are ways to reduce your legal fees. Following are some tips.
1. PREPARE FOR YOUR PHONE CALLS
You are charged for every phone call with your lawyer. Call only when necessary. Before
calling, make a list of topics you want to discuss.
2. SEEK OUTSIDE HELP FOR EMOTIONAL PROBLEMS
No doubt about it, lawsuits are stressful and emotionally draining. However, your
lawyer is not your psychologist or psychiatrist. It is less expensive to handle your
stress by regular exercise, a healthy diet, and companionship with good friends. If your
condition is serious, seek professional help. Your lawyer can provide a referral.
3. HONESTY IS THE BEST POLICY
Your lawyer needs to know the good and bad points of your case. The opposition will
find out the bad points against you and exploit them. If you do not tell your lawyer the
bad points, it will be more expensive for him to protect your rights and defend you.
4. FEE DISPUTES
If you believe you've been overcharged, make an appointment to discuss it with your
lawyer. If you have discussed the matter with your lawyer, and your are still
dissatisfied, contact the State, or local, Bar Fee Dispute Committee, which mediates such
disputes.
5. KEEP YOUR SENSE OF HUMOR
Lawsuits are expensive. Sometimes the results are unfair. Seldom does anyone get
everything they want in a lawsuit. Just the same, keep your sense of humor. It will save
you money by preventing you from litigating the non-essential points.
6. CALL FOR APPOINTMENTS
When you need to discuss the case, call ahead to make appointments. You are bound to be
disappointed if you "drop in for a few minutes" because your lawyer more than
likely will be busy with other clients.
Provided as a public service by:
William J. Leininger, PC
Attorney at Law
34 Dumont Ave.
Staten Island, New York
(718) 979-5200
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