Quote and offer comparison table
| Quote item | Why it matters | Red flag | Better approach |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scope of work | Shows what the lawyer will actually do | Vague phrases like 'handle the matter' | Ask for included and excluded tasks. |
| Fee model | Changes how total cost risk works | No written explanation of hourly, flat, retainer, or contingency terms | Ask when fees can change and what expenses are separate. |
| Timeline | Legal matters can depend on courts, agencies, or opposing parties | Guaranteed timing | Ask for realistic milestones and dependencies. |
| Communication | Poor updates can create stress and missed information | No clear contact route | Ask who responds and how often updates are sent. |
| Experience fit | Practice-area and local procedure knowledge can matter | Generic claims without examples | Ask about similar matters without demanding confidential details. |
| Conflict check | Lawyers must avoid conflicts that affect representation | Rushed intake with no conflict questions | Ask when the conflict check is completed. |