Reputable accident advice lawyers and solicitors always act professionally and abide by the rule of law. A good accident advice lawyer will ensure that all conversations between you and them are kept related to your case and never stray beyond what’s essential, except where you yourself ask any questions that are not the norm.
But, not all lawyers are as professional as this. Some, and they are a minority, lack etiquette and can go beyond the realms of what’s considered to be normal claims conversation.
However, it’s important to remember that there’s a difference between friendly conversation and inappropriate conversation. Lawyers are human beings and chit chat, or conversation related to current trends, may well take place. This is perfectly natural and a part of being human, and it may in fact help you to feel more comfortable throughout the claims process. If at any point you start to feel uncomfortable about a conversation however, you should always assert yourself and make your feelings known.
Let’s look at some questions that are clearly things that your lawyer should never ask you:
- Are you happy in your relationship with your spouse?
This is none of your accident lawyer’s business. Your happiness is not their concern.
- How many children do you have, would you like more?
This is a personal question that is insensitive and unrelated to your accident claim.
- What is your favourite food/drink/movie/book?
Again, this is none of your accident lawyer’s business. They have no right to know.
- Have you ever had any sexual thoughts about…?
This is downright rude and illegal. If you are asked anything like this, report your lawyer.
Essentially, anything that is personal and unrelated to your case should not be asked. If you are asked something by your lawyer and you are not sure of the question’s relevance, then question your lawyer’s motive. If you feel your lawyer is overstepping their legal boundaries, then report them to the law firm that they work for and request a new lawyer – feeling uncomfortable or harassed by your lawyer is just reason to make such a request.
The good news is that it’s incredibly rare for such questions to be asked. A law firm like Accident Advice Helpline works with solicitors who hold themselves to the highest professional standards and the rule of law. You can avoid feeling harassed or uncomfortable by choosing a law firm that has an excellent reputation and customer satisfaction record, and furthermore large law firms have strict practices in place to ensure that only relevant and essential questions are asked of you – questions related to your case and nothing else.
