Real estate law is a complex subject, involving a variety of regulations that can vary significantly from one jurisdiction to another.
This area of law also has a broad influence. Business owners and employees, as well as homeowners, renters and their dependents, are all impacted by real estate law. Real estate itself often represents a significant investment. The National Association of Realtors explained that ownership of a home is the largest source of wealth for families. Investment properties and business real estate are also generally large and important assets for their owners.
Working with a real estate attorney can help individuals and business owners navigate complex laws and protect especially valuable assets. Due diligence in commercial real estate, for example, can support informed decision-making by thoroughly assessing risk and performance.
Overall, real estate law has an especially widespread influence on a wide range of individuals, families and businesses. That can make it especially important to find a real estate lawyer who provides a consistently high level of client service. Keep reading to learn more about what client service means in the legal field and why it’s important. You’ll also find advice for identifying attorneys who prioritize client service.
What is Client Service in the Legal Field?
At its core, client service is not a particularly intricate or advanced concept. The simplest definition of client service is customer service, specifically for lawyers and law firms. Strong client service makes you feel respected, understood and valued. These are all important qualities for the legal field in general, especially real estate law in particular.
Picture yourself entering into a relationship with a real estate lawyer. You make a financial commitment and rely on your attorney to interpret intricate laws and provide legal advice and guidance. Would you want to feel like your attorney is invested in that relationship? Would you rather work with a law firm that’s attentive and responsive, or slow to reply to questions and requests?
Strong client relationships, consistent client communication and similar concepts are the foundation of client services in the legal field.
How Can I Find an Attorney Who Values Client Service?
Certain qualities, processes and approaches to providing guidance and support exemplify strong client service in the legal profession. These include:
Demonstrating Understanding and Care
Lawyers and law firms that emphasize client service take the time to listen. They won’t rush you through your initial consultation or assume they understand your situation without listening to you first. Phone calls and other conversations with your attorney shouldn’t feel perfunctory. Your needs should be prioritized.
Mentioning a concern or worry to a lawyer who prioritizes strong client service should lead to advice on possible next steps. Asking for clarification on a complex statute or piece of real estate case law should end with you feeling more informed.
Valuing Your Time as a Client
Responsiveness is a cornerstone of client service. Do you find yourself waiting days for a reply to an email or phone call? That’s often a sign of poor client service, especially if the issue is time sensitive. An attorney focused on client service will prioritize your needs. Keep in mind that doesn’t always mean a lawyer can quickly provide a complete answer to a complex question.
However, it should lead to fast responses. That’s true even if it’s an explanation of why more time is needed to provide that full answer. Valuing your time and keeping you informed reduces stress and anxiety. It’s a basic expectation you should have for any potential real estate attorney.
Offering an Experience Based on Your Needs
The experience you have with your attorney should always prioritize your needs and goals. That’s true for both individual and corporate client service. You’re the party paying for legal guidance and support. You deserve respect and attention as well as those legal services in return.
Does your attorney make it easy to get in touch? How do they share updates and instruct you on the next steps in the process? Do they make the overall process of working with them simple and clear?
The Importance of Consistent Service as a Client
Real estate law is complex and broadly influential. Finding an attorney who understands the importance of your needs doesn’t only streamline the process. It can also help you realize better outcomes related to especially valuable assets.
