Client Interview

Question 1

What is client interview and counselling?

Answer 1

It is the process of eliciting relevant facts to understand a client’s brief and what the client wants.

Question 2

What are the two main recognized models of client interview for lawyers?

Answer 2

1. Avron Sherr Model
2. Chay and Smith Model

Question 3

What are the stages of the Avron Sherr Model?

Answer 3

1. Listening
2. Questioning
3. Advising

Question 4

What are the seven stages of the Chay and Smith Model?

Answer 4

1. Preparing
2. Starting the interview
3. Understanding the Client’s concerns
4. Identifying and evaluating solutions
5. Taking instructions
6. Closing
7. Reflecting

Question 5

What is the purpose of a client interview?

Answer 5

1. To establish lawyer/client relationship.
2. To understand the client’s problem.
3. To get the client’s instruction.
4. To calm the anxiety of the client.
5. To enable the lawyer to advise the client appropriately.
6. To enable the lawyer to elicit the facts of the client’s case.
7. To enable the lawyer to understand the area of law which the client’s problem falls.

Question 6

Where is the venue for conducting a client interview?

Answer 6

The venue is the solicitor’s office.

Question 7

What must advising clients be within?

Answer 7

Advising clients must be within the bounds of the Law and not boastful assurances.

Question 8

What must be candid in advising clients?

Answer 8

Advising must be candid as to the strengths and weaknesses of the client’s matter.