I have previously blogged about solicitor’s negligence and the current state of the law with respect to, in part, determining lawyers’ liability and the applicable standard of care. As a follow-up, below is a brief list of some best practice tips to keep in mind:

• Communicate – keep the client informed of legal options and obligations
  • Provide clients with regular updates, even if there is nothing to report
  • Don’t rely solely on email – call or meet with a client to discuss or review more complex matters
  • Manage client’s expectations – provide a realistic assessment of risk and/or costs involved
  • Have a clear retainer agreement – include what steps you will (and will not) be taking

• Educate – know your area of law and keep current on new developments
  • Get to know the relevant statutes
    
  • Familiarize yourself with related areas of law – enough to flag issues and refer client for expert opinions (ex. taxes)
  • Be careful with delegation and supervision of work – the client is relying on your expertise
  • Dabble in other areas of law at your own risk!

• Investigate – the client’s circumstances and needs
  • Understand your client: What are her needs, concerns, and desired outcome? What legal issues is she facing?
    
  • Make time to fully investigate the background of a matter – probe your client for details and supporting documents
  • Obtain and review relevant records (for example, title searches)
  • The investigation stage will be unique to each area of law – create a checklist, if possible

• Document – every step of the file
  • Keep detailed docket entries
  • Confirm client instructions in writing – this also gives the client the opportunity to alert you to any misunderstanding
  • Be clear in your communications with opposing counsel and/or third parties

These are just a few duties and obligations to keep in mind to maintain an effective practice for both you and your client.