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    Healthy Attorney-Client Relations

    by SimpleLaw on
    Attorney Attorney Wellness

    Ultimately, the law is about people. Certainly, the focus is on the application of the law to specific situations but rarely does that exclude people. Having a healthy attorney-client relationship is at the core of making that process as easy as possible. The key to a healthy attorney-client relationship? Not that different from personal relationships, with some exceptions of course. Below are some suggestions to create and maintain a healthy attorney-client relationship.

    Set Expectations

    As in any relationship, clearly discussing and agreeing on expectations is key. Be sure to have an open and honest discussion about what the client can expect from the attorney. Whether its availability, response times, billing and payment processes, meetings, or other items, be clear in what your firm is able to support. Certainly, listen to your client and if something is particularly sensitive for them, and you are open to addressing their need, well, that's a good idea. The key here is to ensure both parties are clear in expectations throughout the process of resolving the matter.

    Clear Communication

    It's easy to share good news or even expected news. But if things aren't what is hoped, that's a bit more challenging. Let clients know all the news, on a timely basis. Don't mince words, but don't be too direct, either. While the flow of case resolution is part of your day, for the client, it's likely more impactful. Be thoughtful, concise, and avoid too much legal jargon. Ask your client if they have questions. Listen carefully and reply as succinctly and directly as possible. Naturally, the client needs to be responsive to your needs, too.

    Create Resolution Opportunities

    In all relationships, bumps in the road happen. Anticipating them and setting up a way to move forward and through them is key. Setting up standard check-in points throughout the case is one easy way to nip things in the bud. Proactively reach out to your clients every so often and give them the opportunity to voice any concerns. Similarly, you need to ensure the needs of the case are being met. These check-ins help keep issues from growing. There is a silver lining to this process too. Ensuring clients feel valued and attended to during the case increases the odds that they will refer you to others, too. And the benefit to the all-important online reviews. 

    Transparency

    Clients want visibility into their matters. Offering legal tech that gives them a client view simplifies the process for you and gives them 24/7 access to their case. Look for case management software that provides the transparency clients want. Many platforms, if not most, offer online payment convenience, too, among many other benefits. Discuss the clients' desire for online portal access if your firm offers it. 

    Ultimately, a healthy attorney-client relationship is based on mutual respect and honesty, like all relationships. Use these tips from the first interaction through to resolution, and beyond. Not only will your relationships be strong, but you build a positive network for future referrals. And you save yourself a lot of stress, too. 

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