Frequently asked questions
Answers to the questions people most often ask before they first meet us.
How are your fees decided?
We do not have fixed charges. Our fees depend on three things: the complexity of the matter and the issues involved, the level of experience needed to work on it, and the time we estimate it will take to complete.
Is there a fee for the first consultation?
We do not charge a fee for the initial consultation. If you decide to engage us, the lawyer concerned will explain all fees and charges to you first.
What happens in the first consultation?
The purpose of the meeting is to understand the legal issue you are facing, to explain the options open to you, and to work out the best way forward. We will also set out the scope of our work and the fees we propose for it.
What should I bring to the first meeting?
Please bring every document that relates to your matter, and a list of the people involved with their contact details. If you can send us a short note describing the issue at least 48 hours beforehand, we can prepare much better.
Is what I tell you confidential?
Yes. Everything you discuss with your advocate is confidential, and everyone at the firm has signed a confidentiality agreement. All information you share with us stays with us.
What happens if I decide to engage the firm?
After the first consultation, we will sign a client engagement letter with you. It sets out our scope of work, the partner in charge of your matter and the fees proposed.
How long will my matter take?
Transactional matters usually close within a few months. Disputes can take considerably longer, especially once they are before a court.
How will I be kept informed?
You are entitled to know about every development in your matter, large or small. As you prefer, we will send you a short letter or email whenever something changes, and the partner in charge is always available to discuss your matter by telephone.
Who decides how my matter is handled?
You decide the general direction. Our job is to advise you on the options available, including the advantages, drawbacks and costs of each. We will usually make a recommendation, but the final decision is yours, and we will then carry out your instructions.
Are there instructions you cannot accept?
Yes. We cannot accept instructions that conflict with our duties to the courts or to other lawyers, or that are not permitted by the rules of the Bar Council of India.
How are pro bono matters taken up?
As a matter of firm policy, Shankari & Co. undertakes pro bono work at its discretion, in matters it considers to involve genuine injustice or hardship. Owing to the firm’s other professional commitments, only a limited number of such matters can be accepted at any given time. Such matters may be brought to the firm’s attention through the contact details on this website. Should the firm wish to take up a matter, or require further information, it will get in touch directly.
Another question? Write to the firm.