Develop Attorney-Client Relationships by Getting to Know Your Clients | Lawyerist

Develop Attorney-Client Relationships by Getting to Know Your Clients | Lawyerist

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Law school can train you to think like a lawyer, write like a lawyer, and talk like a lawyer. Although law schools are making an effort to help students acquire practical experience during law school, many law students have no idea how to interact with a client.

Developing strong client relationships is critical to success as a lawyer. Make sure you are on the same page as your client.

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Why it matters

Knowing your clients means you can achieve the results that they want. It sounds simple, but listening to what your clients want is critical. Clients want a solution to their problem, but every client has different goals. Some clients want a monetary solution, others want something else. Success is measured by achieving your client’s goals—not achieving whatever goals you set for a case.

Maybe you can see a big payday if you pursue months of litigation, or found a reason to get back at opposing counsel. Your professional responsibility, however, is to act in your client’s best interest, not your own.

x x x.When you are meeting a client, get to know the client, not just what facts are relevant to the case. You don’t have to ask about their hobbies, but listening will help you clue in on things that are important to them. Do they always talk about their dog/the Vikings/their new baby? Ask them about those things and you will get to know them as a person, not just as your client. That should foster more trust, which leads to a more satisfied client.

I spoke with a client today who compared me to another lawyer and the client said “you know, it’s easier talking to you, because you actually have a personality.” That’s probably because I ask about his grandchildren, his recent vacation, and the trials and tribulations of being a parent. It’s not rocket science. You don’t need to become best friends with your clients—but make an effort to get to know them.

Some people have the gift of gab and can naturally become buddy-buddy after five minutes of conversation. Even if you don’t have that gift, however, making a conscious effort to get to know your clients will pay dividends.

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