Getting a good attorney can be challenging, if not frustrating. However, the basic guidelines are the same in most countries. It is recommended that you hire an attorney who can be your ‘legal coach’ and agent at the same time. From the beginning, a good lawyer connects with his client. Determine if there is a fit, although personality fit is very important as you, the client, should have a sense of security from the initial contact. Jamaican attorney Charles Williams, with over 25 years of experience, advises the client to ask lots of questions and pay attention to vital evaluators, such as chemistry and accessibility, early on.

He says that lawyers should be able to give an idea of ​​the time frame involved and the steps necessary to achieve a solution to the problem. Clients need to ‘know’ they have the last word, although the attorney advises on all possible outcomes, says another attorney, Jacqueline Samuels. Therefore, the client must recognize the critical value of outlining their desired course of action. In any country, clients should inquire whether the attorney is fully certified and qualified to represent them, especially in court, by the appropriate body. In Jamaica, lawyers carry minimal advertising, such as phone book lists. However, directory listings are not sufficient guidelines for locating a good attorney.

The old way – through friends, family and acquaintances can never run out. In addition, the choice, based on reputation or observation, can be very beneficial. Observations can be made by attending court and seeing attorneys in action, or sometimes through knowledge of a successful transaction already in progress, where permitted. The General Legal Council of Jamaica, the body responsible for the discipline and rules governing lawyers, cannot recommend lawyers. The crux of hiring an attorney is often based on the attorney, the experience, the nature of the case, the nature of the issues and complexities, the type and amount of work required. The initial consultation is, in many cases, free. Within Jamaica’s free market, both parties must meet to decide the fee to be paid or fees to be charged outside of the fees required by law.

This, given that lawyers are free to charge fees that, in their opinion, their services are worthwhile. Some attorneys charge a full fee up front, while others charge an initial advance, plus additions over time for additional items, such as court appearances. (Note: in Jamaica, cases can drag on in court for two to three years, or up to 20 years in extreme circumstances.) Still, there are attorneys who charge an hourly rate after the initial advance. In the case of commercial transactions such as land matters, the fees are calculated as a percentage of the value of the property in question. Fundamentally, clients must, at all times, have a clear idea on the basis of the fee structure and therefore the fee to be charged to avoid misunderstandings and budgeting problems. In addition, clients should, at all times, take into account available legal assistance (called pro bono in the US) supplemented by the government.

Through a partnership between the government and the attorneys, legal assistance is made available, as private attorneys agree to accept significantly reduced fees from people in financial distress. In the case of criminal matters, with some exceptions such as drug cases, legal aid is offered. There are three legal aid clinics in Jamaica, namely Kingston Legal Aid Clinic, Legal Aid Clinic, Norman Manley Law School, in Mona, St Andrew, and Montego Bay Ltd Legal Aid Clinic in St. James. The cost can start at JA $ 20,000 (1US $ = approx. JA $ 89). Lawyers also volunteer, on duty, as lawyers on duty at police stations, where they advise or represent detained or arrested persons.

Tips to keep in mind: When choosing an attorney, research the level of experience and specialization. Choosing between attorney and attorney is no longer a problem, as Jamaican attorneys can now operate as both. Attorneys who do not have adequate time to devote to your case, due to heavy workload, should inform you. Information on legal fees and costs can be obtained from public agencies and offices, such as the Registrar of Titles. Finally, never assume that a ‘friendly’ attorney cares about you. Make sure even these ‘friendly’ attorneys speak directly, especially to tell you when to contact, in case they don’t contact you first.