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Tips and Tools for a Successful Practice - South Carolina Bar ...

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II.<br />

ATTORNEY-CLIENT RELATIONSHIP - FORMATION TO TERMlNATION<br />

A. BriefOverview of the Michigan Rule ofProfessional Conduct ­<br />

Communication, Communication, Communication!<br />

B. The <strong>for</strong>mation ofthe Attorney-Client relationship<br />

1. Defining who is the "client"- Anyone who knows you are an<br />

attorney <strong>and</strong> asks you a question.<br />

2. Initial Meeting<br />

a. gather infonnation<br />

b. give infonnation<br />

c. conflict ofinterest<br />

3. Client screening - avoiding the "problem" client<br />

(Knowing when to say "No")<br />

4. . Accepting Representation<br />

a. Defming the scope ofrepresentation<br />

b. Fee agreement - (covered in next session)<br />

c. Explanation ofcosts <strong>and</strong> expenses<br />

d. Communications about billings<br />

C. Maintaining the Attorney-Client Relationship<br />

1. Frequent communications - returning telephone calls<br />

2. Scheduled billings - every month .<br />

3. Confidentiality<br />

D. Termination ofthe representation<br />

1. Closure letters, fmal billing <strong>and</strong> file retention<br />

2. Withdrawing from representation<br />

a. At request ofclient<br />

b. When required<br />

c. Permission from court<br />

LJ

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