Frequently asked questions
Useful answers before the first conversation.
General information about working with counsel and the legal matters Paul handles.
Contacting the office
Beginning the attorney–client conversation
Does calling or submitting a form make Paul my attorney?
No. Representation begins only after Paul agrees to accept the matter, any required conflict check is completed, and an engagement agreement is signed.
What should I include in an initial message?
Provide your name, contact information, the general type of matter, all party names, and any approaching deadline or court date. Do not include confidential details until the office confirms how they should be shared.
What documents should I prepare?
Start with court papers, the principal agreement or lease, notices, a brief chronology, and the records most directly connected to the problem. The consultation checklist provides a fuller guide.
Can an attorney guarantee the outcome?
No. Outcomes depend on the facts, evidence, law, procedure, opposing parties, and decision-maker. Prior results do not guarantee a similar result.
Criminal defense
Questions after an arrest or accusation
Should I explain my side to the police?
You have the right to seek legal advice before answering questions. Statements made informally can become evidence. A person facing accusation should consider asking for counsel rather than trying to resolve the matter through an unrepresented explanation.
What information is most urgent?
Tell the office whether the person is in custody, the charge if known, the next court date, any release conditions, and whether an order of protection has been issued.
What records should be preserved?
Keep all appearance tickets, complaints, release papers, property vouchers, messages, photographs, recordings, and potential witness information. Do not alter or delete relevant material.
Family law
Questions during family transition
What should I gather before a divorce consultation?
Prepare a family timeline, prior agreements and orders, income records, recent tax returns, account statements, property documents, debts, insurance information, and a list of immediate concerns.
Does every family matter go to trial?
No. Many issues are resolved through agreement, negotiation, or court-approved settlement. Others require motions, hearings, or trial. The appropriate path depends on the issues and parties.
Should I post about the dispute online?
Consider that social-media posts and messages can be preserved and presented in court. Avoid discussing an active matter publicly without first considering the potential consequences.
Property and housing
Real estate and landlord–tenant questions
When should a real estate attorney review an agreement?
Ideally before it is signed or before a contractual deadline passes. Review is also important when a party receives a default notice, demand, termination notice, or proposed amendment.
What should I bring to a landlord–tenant consultation?
Bring the complete lease and riders, renewals, notices, proof of service, payment history, repair records, photographs, communications, and every court paper.
Can I rely on a verbal agreement?
The answer depends on the type of agreement, applicable law, and available proof. Preserve messages, payment records, and other evidence rather than assuming an oral understanding will be easy to establish.
Civil litigation
Questions when a dispute escalates
What happens before a civil trial?
A case may involve pleadings, document exchange, depositions, court conferences, motions, expert work, and settlement discussions before any trial takes place.
Should I keep emails and text messages?
Yes, if they may be relevant. Preserve complete threads and original electronic files. Do not selectively delete unfavorable material or edit documents.
Is settlement a sign of weakness?
No. Settlement is a business and legal decision that may reflect evidence, cost, timing, enforceability, risk, and the client’s priorities. Sound preparation strengthens both negotiation and trial readiness.