Referrals

Referral Etiquette

As an Attorney were often farming out referring clients that
come to other Attorneys. This is done based on the area of law or expertise the
potential client is seeking or simply because the client is outside our
geographical area.

This is a great and free way to get referrals. That
being said here are some ground rules I feel should be laid down when referring
clients to another attorney.

1.     
If at all possible make sure the attorney that you are
referring the client to is going to be able to receive the referral and assist
the client.

2.     
Try and establish a working relationship with the other
Attorney where you can refer clients to each other.

3.     
Provide the client with the other Attorney’s
telephone number, Fax, and email address if at all possible. Most ethics
rule forbid the other Attorney from contacting the client directly first.

4.     
DO NOT PROMISE THE CLIENT A SPECIFIC RATE OR ADVISE.
REMEMBER YOU ARE NOT HANDLING THE CASE SO YOU SHOULD NOT GIVING OUT ANY FURTHER
INFORMATION THAN THE OTHER ATTORNEY’S INFORMATION.

5.     
DO not bully the other Attorney into “hooking up”
or discounting the rate. Often times Attorneys refer their family members and
friends and expect the other Attorney to slash their prices. Remember like you
they have overhead and a life style to maintain, so please do not take bread
out of their mouths.

Remember the larger your network
the more powerful your network will be!