12.1 – Introduction and Objectives
Client-Lawyer relationships are immensely important. The first few meetings will set the tone for the entirety of the relationship, so it is imperative that they start off right. While it is important to ensure that you have a simple and clear client screening process for your client’s sake, it is just as important that your intake process allows you to determine whether the client is also a good fit for you and your practice. Not all problems potential clients come to you with are a match for your legal practice and it is OK to say no to a client when they would be better off looking for advice elsewhere.
It may be difficult to turn away business, but it is worth establishing a habit of screening potential clients to ensure the relationship will be a good fit for both yourself and your client. This module discusses the client screening process and reviews what you should look for when screening clients and their cases.
The objectives of the Client Screening module are:
- To appreciate that client screening can help ensure that you are taking on the right clients for your practice, and that clients are taking on the right lawyer for their cause.
- To start developing a checklist of things to consider when screening clients.
Although we aim to present a comprehensive Module, this Module is not exhaustive. This Module is not a substitute for exercising professional judgment and does not constitute legal advice.
Time Estimate for this Module (including Quiz): 15 minutes