When you’re new to the legal world and haven’t represented many people, you won’t immediately have the trust of those who utilize your services. You may not have several client testimonials, and your few years of experience may not inspire much confidence.
However, every lawyer has to start somewhere, and you’ll need to take on clients in order to become the best lawyer you can be. You may be able to build trust with the clients you do sign on by taking the following steps.
Don’t Make Promises
As exciting as it can be to sign on new clients as a car accident attorney, it’s essential not to appear too confident by making promises you can’t keep. For example, if you’re representing someone filing a personal injury claim after a car crash, you can’t promise that you’ll be successful or help them receive a multi-million-dollar payout, even if you’re confident in your abilities.
Instead, use a fact-based approach and outline the best and worst-case scenarios. This way, your client has a fair understanding of what to expect and doesn’t have to experience stress related to the unknown.
Outline How the Process Works
Not everyone inquiring about your legal services has been through the legal system before. Most people only experience one or two car accidents in their driving life, and they may not know what happens once they’ve been involved in one.
You may be able to build trust and a beneficial relationship with your client by outlining how the entire legal process works from start to finish. This can involve gathering evidence like witness statements and medical reports, going through the mediation process, negotiation, and even a court trial.
Communicate Often
Being involved in a personal injury case is likely one of the most stressful events of your client’s life, even if it’s just one of many cases to you. Don’t forget to check in often, even if it’s just to alleviate their concerns or update them with minor information.
Provide as many communication methods as possible, such as an address for them to pop in for a coffee and discussion, phone numbers, and email addresses. Even if you can’t discuss their case with them immediately, you can acknowledge their email or call and get back to them as soon as you can.
As many people struggle with the long timelines associated with the legal system, keeping in contact with clients as cases progress may help them see you as trustworthy and reliable.
Be Honest About Money
Whether you’re representing the person responsible for the accident or the victim, be honest and upfront about money from the very beginning. Many lawyers operate on a no-win, no-fee basis, and if you do, be clear about what this involves when you sign on a new client.
If you’re representing someone responsible for an accident, itemize your charges, your hourly fee, how often you will charge them, and the type of bills they can expect to receive. By doing so, your clients can understand their financial obligations and budget accordingly.
As a new lawyer, trust can take time to build. Sometimes, it’s not until you have several successes under your belt that people start to realize you’re an excellent lawyer. In the meantime, lay the foundation for success by taking these practical steps above.
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