So You Hired A Lawyer? Now What?

Published on
September 10, 2020
Written by
Angel Murphy
Category
Legal Matters

A lawyer is your advocate, your counselor, your go-to for all things legal. However,  finding a competent one is the first step. Ensuring that they are tending to the specific needs of your unique legal matter. It is also a separate step in the process. If you have your chosen Maryland or District of Columbia lawyer. To handle your legal matter, you usually have to sign an agreement form called a retainer agreement. What is a retainer agreement?    

A retainer agreement lists the terms of the arrangement you have with the attorney.  Moreover, noting all of the things that they have been hired to do on your behalf. The agreement also potentially includes the fees and services and procedures for completing your case.

What are the responsibilities of a lawyer?

Maintain open communication in collaborating work & trusting relationships. In conclusion, it is important in assisting in which direction the clients want the case to proceed.Some of these tasks include:

  • Filing appropriate motions and pleadings with the court and responding to any discovery requests such as requests for documents and interrogatories.
  • Regularly communicating with the client to provide updates.
  • Providing an informed understanding of the client’s legal rights and obligations and explaining their practical implications.
  • Handling administrative tasks. Includes as meetings, phone calls, organizing court documents to file, researching legal issues.

What are my responsibilities as a client?

As a client, courtesy and respect are the hallmarks of the attorney-client relationship. Additionally, the client looks to the attorney for expertise, education, sound judgment, protection, advocacy, and representation. These expectations can achieve only if the client fulfills the following responsibilities:

  • Firstly, maintain permanent contact with the lawyer, promptly notify the lawyer of any changes that could hinder communication or representation.
  • Secondly, expect his or her correspondence, telephone calls, and other forms of communication answers within a reasonable time frame.
  • Thirdly, the client has the right to choose how and if the case can settle.
  • Fourthly, the client is expected to treat the lawyer and the lawyer's staff with courtesy and consideration respectfully.

Communication is key. It has something to do with separating tasks between you and your hired Maryland lawyer. Overall, before you have come to an agreement or a decision, a consultation is a must in order to prepare for court. Avoid conflict in accomplishing the client's objectives. Clear and frequent communication with the attorney is best. The Murphy Law Firm LLC can answer all of your questions and Angel Murphy can act as your advocate to ensure your needs are met! Contact our office today to schedule a consultation at (240) 493-9116 or email at angel@amurphylegal.com. If you are active on social media, Like us on Facebook @AMurphyLegal, Follow us on Instagram @AMurphyLegal, and Twitter @AMurphy_Legal.

Angel Murphy

Personable. Passionate. Persistent.

client-Lawyer Relationship|Clients Rights|Communication|Duties of a Lawyer|Hiring a Maryland Lawyer|Lawyer as an Advocate|Legal matters|Maryland Attorney|Maryland Court|Maryland Judge|Responsibilities of a Client

Subscribe to our newsletter

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

Articles & Resources

March 4, 2024

Rudnick v. Rudnick (2023) & Unconscionability in Maryland Prenuptial Agreements

In Rudnick v. Rudnick (2023), a prenuptial agreement signed in 1992 became the subject of dispute during the couple's divorce in 2019. The agreement, which prohibited the division of assets or alimony, was initially considered fair but was deemed unconscionable at the time of enforcement. Massachusetts law, where the case arose, applied an unconscionability analysis at the time of enforcement. The courts ruled in favor of the wife, highlighting the importance of skilled legal representation well-versed in relevant state laws.

July 25, 2025

Estate Planning Guidance for Blended Families in Maryland

Blended families face unique challenges in estate planning due to the presence of natural children, stepchildren, and half-siblings. Trusts are especially valuable as they allow parents to control asset distribution privately and avoid probate. Well-drafted wills complement trusts by providing clear instructions that prevent confusion or disputes, ensuring assets are distributed according to the creator’s wishes rather than default intestacy laws.

July 21, 2025

More Details on Relocating with a Custody Arrangement in Maryland

Relocation by a parent often impacts child custody arrangements in Maryland, requiring formal court review to ensure the move serves the child’s best interests. Parents must usually give at least 90 days’ notice, though notice requirements can be customized by judges or agreed privately. Whether custodial or noncustodial, a relocating parent must seek approval if the move materially affects compliance with the existing custody order.

July 14, 2025

Smith v. Smith (2025) & the Power to Revise Judgments

In Maryland, parties can freely move to revise a final judgment within 30 days, but after that, changes generally require showing fraud, mistake, or irregularity. In Smith v. Smith (2025), the appellate court reinforced this finality principle, ruling that the husband’s attempt to revise a 1999 divorce order decades later was untimely. This case highlights how strictly Maryland courts uphold the finality of judgments.

July 18, 2025

Peete v. Peete (2023) & Bigamy Issues in Maryland

Bigamy, though rare, occurs when someone marries again while still legally married to another. In Peete v. Peete (2023), a first wife challenged her ex-husband’s second marriage decades later, after a divorce judgment was vacated for improper service. Ultimately, the appellate court found she had standing but denied her annulment claim because her motive was purely financial gain.