What is RPC Rule 1.4?
RPC Rule 1.4
In order to have a rewarding and successful practice, an attorney must practice good communication skills. A lawyer must be able to communicate clearly with staff, associates, vendors, other lawyers, partners as well as clients. By improving communication skills, a lawyer can express themselves with more confidence which will help attract more clients. Good communication can help establish a solid rapport and trust between the lawyer and a client. The Rules for Professional Conduct contain rule 1.4 which deals with communication between a lawyer and a client.
RPC Rule 1.4 – Communication
Section a explains that a lawyer must completely inform a potential client about the various ways available to communicate with the lawyer. They must also be made aware of the times that the lawyer is available for communication and where the client can initiate communication with the attorney.
Section b states that lawyers must keep a client reasonably informed about the status of the case and that they must promptly reply to reasonable requests for information which is pertinent to the case. Section c outlines how a lawyer must share information with a client in such a way that they are afforded making informed decisions regarding their representation. And the final section (d) states that a lawyer who knows that a client is expecting assistance that is not in accordance with the Rules of Professional Conduct or is in violation of any other law, then the lawyer must advise the client of the limitations of the conduct of the lawyer.
Is Verbal Communication A Thing of the Past?
In our technology based age it is easy to grow dependent on email as a primary means of communication. There are certain types of communication which are not acceptably shared via email. For instance, bad news should always be given either by phone or in person instead of by email. Making negotiations is much more likely to end up in successful terms when they are handled over the phone rather than email. When a problem is discussed verbally, it allows for more engagement in the other communications skills which can help achieve and maintain the trust of a client. There are some calls that are very difficult to make such as the one informing a client that the matter is not going to be completed by a predetermined date. Ethically, it is best to inform the client as soon as it is apparent that the matter is not going to be completed on time. It is essential to talk to the client, via phone, and inform them of these types of situations. When a client sees that a NJ attorney handles situations, even unpleasant ones, in an honest and upfront manner, they will be much more confident in his other services. It is important to note that using the phone for communication can lead to the lawyer talking too much. Be careful to not dominate the conversation but spend time listening and trying to understand the client’s point of view.
Listening – the Forgotten Communication Skill
Listening skills are just as important for legal communications as are speaking skills. A client who is listened to will feel like they are better understood and they are likely to be more trusting of the attorney. Sometimes lawyers make the mistake of anticipating what is about to be said and fail to listen carefully. It is essential to listen intently to each client’s problem in order to develop a deeper understanding of their needs. In order to develop good listening skills remember to refrain from interrupting and avoid rehearsing answers at the same time the other person is talking. Always wait until the question has been completely asked before offering an answer, and remember to be quiet – and just listen.
RPC Rule 1.4 – Communication
Section a explains that a lawyer must completely inform a potential client about the various ways available to communicate with the lawyer. They must also be made aware of the times that the lawyer is available for communication and where the client can initiate communication with the attorney.
Section b states that lawyers must keep a client reasonably informed about the status of the case and that they must promptly reply to reasonable requests for information which is pertinent to the case. Section c outlines how a lawyer must share information with a client in such a way that they are afforded making informed decisions regarding their representation. And the final section (d) states that a lawyer who knows that a client is expecting assistance that is not in accordance with the Rules of Professional Conduct or is in violation of any other law, then the lawyer must advise the client of the limitations of the conduct of the lawyer.
Is Verbal Communication A Thing of the Past?
In our technology based age it is easy to grow dependent on email as a primary means of communication. There are certain types of communication which are not acceptably shared via email. For instance, bad news should always be given either by phone or in person instead of by email. Making negotiations is much more likely to end up in successful terms when they are handled over the phone rather than email. When a problem is discussed verbally, it allows for more engagement in the other communications skills which can help achieve and maintain the trust of a client. There are some calls that are very difficult to make such as the one informing a client that the matter is not going to be completed by a predetermined date. Ethically, it is best to inform the client as soon as it is apparent that the matter is not going to be completed on time. It is essential to talk to the client, via phone, and inform them of these types of situations. When a client sees that a NJ attorney handles situations, even unpleasant ones, in an honest and upfront manner, they will be much more confident in his other services. It is important to note that using the phone for communication can lead to the lawyer talking too much. Be careful to not dominate the conversation but spend time listening and trying to understand the client’s point of view.
Listening – the Forgotten Communication Skill
Listening skills are just as important for legal communications as are speaking skills. A client who is listened to will feel like they are better understood and they are likely to be more trusting of the attorney. Sometimes lawyers make the mistake of anticipating what is about to be said and fail to listen carefully. It is essential to listen intently to each client’s problem in order to develop a deeper understanding of their needs. In order to develop good listening skills remember to refrain from interrupting and avoid rehearsing answers at the same time the other person is talking. Always wait until the question has been completely asked before offering an answer, and remember to be quiet – and just listen.