Commun-ication
This essential interviewing skill requires the lawyer to fully concentrate, avoid premature judgment, and reflect back the client’s meaning to ensure understanding.
What is active listening?
This open-ended question is the recommended way to begin hearing the client’s story
How can I help you?
This rule still applies even when the lawyer ultimately decides not to take the client’s case.
What is the duty of confidentiality?
This technique begins broadly before narrowing the focus to key details.
What is the funnel?
These common client concerns can inhibit the flow of information during an interview
What are embarrassment, shame, and worry?
These broad questions encourage clients to share their narrative freely at the start of the interview
What are open-ended questions?
This interpersonal skill helps a lawyer understand a client’s feelings and communicate more effectively.
What is emotional intelligence?
This is the primary advantage of having a short conversation with a prospective client before the first meeting.
What is identifying any urgent issues or deadlines?
An attorney’s physical workspace sends an important message to the client before any words are exchanged.
Is the attorney professional and attentive?
This technique involves summarizing what the client has said to confirm accuracy and show understanding before moving on.
What is a summary question?
During an interview, this chronological tool helps lawyers and clients reconstruct events more clearly by organizing facts in sequence.
What is a timeline?
the lawyer should help the client clarify what they hope to achieve beyond their initial stated position.
What are the client’s underlying objectives and priorities?