• Look for flat fee deals for routine cases.
• Discuss the hourly rate, and how it’s charged. Obtain a written agreement for the hourly rate and work to be performed.
• Find an attorney that has worked on cases like yours. It saves time spent researching and filing paperwork.
• See if you can help them with anything to lighten their workload.
• Minimize their role. If you only need their help on one aspect, they may be willing to work out a lower rate.
• Hire a lawyer for advice and coaching, but represent yourself in court.
• Be prepared for meetings and phone calls. Minimize the time they spend looking up information for you, and make sure you ask all the questions you need at one time.
• Be truthful. Again, this saves time and money.
• Communicate changes in the situation as soon as possible.
• Ask for regular invoices, and if you’re not sure about something on an invoice, contact your attorney.