Getting the best from your lawyer
Most clients fail to make the most of their lawyers. They turn to lawyers in times of trouble or for statutory routines. But the best lawyers can be strategic partners if they are engaged correctly. Here’s how to get extra value on your next project.
Paint a Vivid Picture: Clearly articulate your project goals and aspirations. Take the time to provide a comprehensive explanation of your objectives, desired outcomes, and any specific requirements. Distinguish between project “must-haves” and “nice-to-haves”. By ensuring your lawyer understands your vision, priorities and the context in which they are working, you set the stage for a successful partnership.
The Power of Early Involvement: Don’t wait until you need a contract to involve your lawyer. Bring them into the fold during the project planning phase. Their legal and commercial acumen can help you develop strategies that mitigate potential legal and commercial pitfalls. Remember, it's always easier and more cost-effective to prevent a mess than to clean it up afterward!
A Continual Connection: Don’t put your lawyer on hold during the project delivery phase. Many clients disengage after the project contract is signed, and only reconnect when a dispute arises. However, it’s during the delivery phase that many issues and risks rear their heads. By keeping your lawyer involved throughout, you enable them to proactively address emerging challenges before they escalate into disputes.
Unlock Proactive Problem-Solving: Empower your lawyer to be a forward-thinking problem solver. Encourage them to anticipate potential hurdles and propose solutions. Extend an invitation to your regular team meetings, providing them with real-time insights into project developments. By fostering an environment that welcomes their questions and suggestions, you enable a skilled project lawyer to spot and navigate issues that may have otherwise blindsided you.
Embrace Respectful Debate: If you have reservations regarding your lawyer’s advice and recommendations, voice your concerns. Your lawyer may not fully grasp all the objectives and constraints you’re managing. Good lawyers are receptive to adjusting their recommendations as new information emerges. The best legal solutions are the often the result of co-creation between you and your lawyer, evolving through multiple iterations.
Communication is Key: Keep the channels of communication open and active. Regularly update your lawyer in on formal contractual correspondence and project progress reports. Most importantly, invite them to your regular team meetings so that they can stay in the loop on project developments and propose strategies in real-time.
Cultivate a Strong Partnership: Building a solid relationship with your lawyer is paramount. Treat them as a valued teammate, appreciating their efforts and expertise. A little praise can go a long way in motivating your lawyer to consistently deliver their best work, and it strengthens the collaboration between you.
Evaluate and Optimise: Conduct periodic reviews to assess your lawyer’s contributions and effectiveness. Provide constructive feedback and make necessary adjustments to optimise their performance. This iterative approach ensures that both you and your lawyer continually improve, enhancing the value they bring to your project.
By implementing these strategies, you'll get the best from your project lawyer. Their guidance and expertise will not only help you navigate legal challenges but also enable you to steer clear of pitfalls. Remember, a proactive and engaged approach is the key to maximizing the value of your legal counsel and achieving project excellence.
