All personal injury firms which operate on a contingent fee (no money up front ) basis and a few family law firms offer "free consultations". Of course, it makes sense for a personal injury case, since you do not pay unless there is a recovery.
The family law firms that offer free consultations use them to get a potential client in the door but do not provide any useful advice or legal information unless they are actually retained. You have made an appointment to come in for a sales pitch. A retainer fee will be required to be paid which is is far, far more than a consultation fee and the client then is bound to that lawyer.
A paid consultation, however, gives a potential client the opportunity to get actual legal advice or information; to decide if they are ready to hire any lawyer and to decide, then or later, if this is the lawyer who they want to hire. You may have a specific question or questions that need to be answered or may want general information about your rights or the legal process. You may be contemplating a separation, divorce or adoption but just not be certain that you are ready to move forward. A consultation is the perfect opportunity to see what is involved. Some times, you may feel after the consultation that you want to try alternative dispute resolution or to take no action. The choice belongs to the client.
A consultation in my office is designed to help each individual choose his or her proper course of action. There is never a sales pitch.
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