You have certain rights and responsibilities when working with an attorney.

Your attorney:

• Should handle your legal matter professionally, ethically, in a timely manner and with skill.
• Should represent you without bias against your race, creed, color, religion, gender, age, disability, place of origin or sexual orientation.
• Must tell you all facts relating to your case, even if the facts are damaging.
• Should clearly explain all fees and other expenses that will be involved as well as when you are expected to pay.
• Does not have to accept or continue to represent you if she/he decides that the case is without merit, or if there is a conflict of interest.
• Your attorney should answer your questions and concerns quickly and clearly.

Fees

An attorney will usually charge you in one of three ways:

• Flat fee.
• Hourly basis.
• On basis of percentage of award received (also called the contingency fee).

Reducing costs:

• Take all letters, documents, and information that could be helpful to your case with you on your first visit.
• Tell your lawyer all the important information up front, especially information that could harm your case.

If problems arise with your attorney, you can file a complaint against him/her with the NM State Bar Association using the Client Attorney Assistance Program at (505) 797-6068.