The initial attorney/client consultation: a case history
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[1] University of South Florida
University of South Florida
Estados Unidos
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- Localización: Southern communication journal, ISSN 1041-794X, Vol. 45, nº 4, 1979, págs. 394-407
- Idioma: inglés
- Texto completo no disponible (Saber más ...)
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Resumen
This study examines communication difficulties perceived by attorneys and clients in a university legal aid program. Attorneys' methods of questioning in their initial interviews are evaluated. Results indicate that while both attorneys and clients believed communication problems occurred, their interpretation of those problems differed greatly. While the client mentioned that the attorney appeared uninterested in the emotional side of the case, the attorney reported that the emotional condition of the client acted as a barrier to smooth and productive communication. Also clients tended to report greater satisfaction when attorneys used open‐ended questions as opposed to close‐ended questions. This study underscores the need to attempt to understand the initial attorney/client interview. Such an understanding may aid in readjusting both parties' expectations of that interview.
