Controlling Legal Fees

Monitoring the legal fees you are expending is not only prudent, but essential.  Here are some tips:

• Do the “leg work.”  Much of the work of an attorney centers on gathering, organizing, and reviewing documents that are pertinent to your case.  The more you can assist in this endeavor, the better.
• If you have a question, save it.  Make a list of your questions, schedule a time to talk to your attorney, and then ask them all at once.
• Be upfront with your lawyer about what your goals are in the case.  Your lawyer can't help you if she doesn't know exactly what you are wanting.
• Ask for a detailed bill each month that describes the work the attorney has done for you.
• Remember that your attorney works for you, not the other way around.  Review your bill, and if you have questions, do not be bashful about asking.