A legal consultation with a lawyer in Wisconsin is an initial meeting that happens before a potential client determines whether or not they want to hire that lawyer. Having this meeting does not mean that the lawyer automatically represents the potential client or has taken their case.
Typically, a written representation agreement is required to be signed by both parties that shows the lawyer has taken the case and outlines the scope of their representation. Before this meeting, an individual should prepare for it by gathering anything they think may be important in their case, which may include documents, photographs, and other items.
If an individual is unsure what they should bring, they should take everything they have related to their issue to the meeting so the attorney can decide what will be important. Things that should be brought to the consultation include, but are not limited to:
- Employment records: In an employment dispute, the individual should bring their employment documents and records, which may include:
- An employment agreement;
- An employment contract;
- Their timesheets;
- Contracts: In a case involving a contract dispute, it is important to bring copies of the contract as well as documents that may be related to or explain the contract;
- Property deeds: For property disputes, it is important to bring a copy of a deed or other documents related to the property;
- Accident or police reports: If there was an incident or other type of incident, an individual should bring any accident or police reports; and
- Other documents evidencing damages: A potential client should bring any other documents or items they believe may be important or can be used to show damages, for example:
- Medical expenses;
- Medical records;
- Warranties or letters created or sent by the other party.
What Will Be Discussed at a Legal Consultation?
What is discussed is every legal consultation will vary depending on the individual’s issue and concerns. At most consultations, however, the lawyer’s fee schedule as well as the facts surrounding the individual’s issue will be discussed.
An individual should share all of the information that they have related to their legal issue, whether they believe it will help or hurt their claim. This is the only way that an attorney will be able to prepare a proper case for their client.
An individual should make sure to ask the lawyer how they charge their clients, which may include:
Will My Legal Consultation Be Confidential?
Yes, legal consultations are confidential. This means that an individual should be honest and share everything they know about their issue during the meeting.
Although a formal attorney-client relationship will not be formed simply because a meeting is held, all of the information shared at the meeting will be treated as though they are privileged and confidential. This means the information will be treated as if attorney-client privilege had, in fact, formed.
What Are Some Questions to Ask During a Lawyer Consultation?
There are numerous different types of questions that an individual may want to ask their potential lawyer during the consultation. The exact questions that an individual asks will depend on their issue or concern.
General questions that an individual should ask during the meeting include questions about:
- The background and qualifications of the lawyer;
- The fee arrangement the lawyer will use for the case;
- What the attorney’s fees will cover;
- Any concerns or questions the individual has about their issue.
It may be helpful to make a written list of the questions to be asked to ensure that everything is addressed during the meeting.
Who Can Give Legal Advice?
Legal advice can only be given to other individuals by licensed lawyers. Legal information and legal advice, however, are not the same thing.
Any individual can read and recite laws. It is illegal, however, for someone who is not a lawyer to provide legal advice or to represent someone other than themselves in court. Licensed attorneys are individuals who have a legal education and passed the state bar exam, or licensing exam, in their state.
A lawyer can give legal advice as well as represent clients in a court of law. If an individual provides legal advice without a law license, they may face severe consequences.
Are Lawyer Consultations Free?
A lawyer consultation may be free, or a lawyer may charge a consultation fee. It is important for a potential client to ask the lawyer before they attend the meeting if they will be charged.
An individual may have several meetings with attorneys who do not charge a consultation fee. In this case, it can give them the opportunity to find a lawyer in their area who they are comfortable with and who fits their budget. It is important for an individual to be comfortable sharing information with their lawyer, as they will often be required to share what seems like personal information.
A consultation fee is paid in advance and covers the attorney’s time and costs for the meeting. If there is a fee for the meeting, it is typically between $50 and $250 and will depend on the attorney’s location, experience, and the complexity of the case.
How Much Does a Lawyer Cost?
The cost of a lawyer in Wisconsin will depend on many different factors, including, but not limited to:
- The type of legal issue;
- The location of the case;
- The billing method used by the lawyer;
- The lawyer’s knowledge, and experience;
- The size of the law firm.
In Wisconsin, the average hourly rate for an attorney is around $230. Potential clients should take note that, in addition to paying the fees required, they may also have to pay certain court fees, administrative fees, and document preparation.
Should the Fee Agreement Be In Writing?
Yes, any type of fee agreement between an attorney and a client should be recorded in a written document. This document will provide information about the parameters of the legal representation that will be provided, including:
- The scope of the attorney’s services
- The type of fees that will be charged
- Any other important issues
Putting the fee agreement in writing can help avoid disputes or uncertainties about the cost of the legal services that will be provided and what the costs include. It can also be used as evidence in court if a dispute arises.
Should I Contact an Attorney and Schedule a Legal Consultation?
If you think you have a legal dispute, issue, or concern in Wisconsin, you should schedule a legal consultation with a local attorney in Wisconsin. An attorney can help you with your issue, ensure your rights are protected throughout the process, and help you obtain the desired outcome in your case.
LegalMatch has a database of lawyers in your area, many of whom offer free initial legal consultations. With LegalMatch, you can submit your case for free in a few minutes and receive responses from local attorneys ready to work on your case within about 24 hours.
By using this service, you may be able to have free consultations with multiple attorneys so you can determine who will best fit your budget and case. It is important to be aware that the consultation will not resolve your issue but will provide a starting point for you to have a resolution.
