Attorneys
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.