Timeline and Detailed Steps for Clients of Pearl Lemon Legal

Pre-Onboarding Phases at Pearl Lemon Legal

Initial Enquiry Reception:

Receive initial enquiry from a distressed citizen or company concerning a legal issue.

Legal Business Development Team Involvement:

The enquiry is passed to the legal business development team, experienced in discussing legal challenges with clients.

Preparation for the Initial Call:

Conduct independent research on the legal issue before the initial call with the prospect.

Schedule and conduct the initial call to discuss the nature and merits of the case.

Discussion of Potential Strategies:

During the call, detail potential legal strategies that Pearl Lemon Legal could execute.

Decision Making by the Prospect:

The prospect decides whether to proceed with Pearl Lemon Legal’s services, a process that can range from one day to two weeks.

Payment Processing:

Once the decision is made, process payment typically via debit card, credit card, or a sent payment link.

Commencement of Onboarding:

The prospect, now becoming a client, is sent the onboarding form to fill out.
Set up a robust communication channel via WhatsApp and email with the client.

Collection of Documentation:

Request the client to compile and send any necessary documents, folders, or other assets relevant to the case.

Awaiting Onboarding Form Details:

Wait for the client to return the completed onboarding form while also collection

Post-Payment Phase

1. Onboarding and Initial Review (Day 1-3)

Evidence Review Stage: Upon receiving a new matter, the team starts by reviewing all documents sent by the client to understand the matter comprehensively. This stage involves scrutinising the documents to see if any additional information or documents are needed from the client.
Initial Communication: The team prioritises cases based on deadlines and attempts to wrap up old cases to focus on new ones. Communication with the client begins, asking for any missing documents and clarifying any initial questions.

2. Research and Planning (Day 4-7)

Research: Depending on the complexity of the matter, the team spends 2 to 3 days researching, utilising trustworthy sources, and determining the next steps. This phase may not always be necessary if the path forward is clear from the outset.
Team Discussion: After reviewing the matter and completing research, the team discusses the case to share thoughts and determine the strategy moving forward.

3. Client Communication and Document Preparation (Week 2)

Question Compilation: The team compiles any questions for the client to avoid back-and-forth communication. Follow-ups are conducted regularly if the client is slow to respond, emphasising the importance of timely document submission to finalise the matter.
Drafting Legal Letter: A legal letter is drafted, incorporating all facts of the matter, what is sought, and the implications of non-response or unsatisfactory response. This draft is reviewed internally and then sent to the client for approval before dispatch.

4. Action and Follow-up (Post Week 2)

Letter Before Action: The process usually begins with a letter before action to the respondent. If there is no desired outcome, the team advises the client on alternative steps, such as court proceedings, if applicable.

Alternative Steps and Court Proceedings: Should the initial letter not yield the desired response, the team evaluates whether the matter is suitable for court. Not all matters will qualify for court proceedings, so this determination is crucial.
Client Advising: Throughout, the client is kept informed about the possible paths, including litigation or other alternative dispute resolutions, and the implications of each.

5. Ongoing Case Management and Team Delegation (Continuous)

Delegation Among Team Members: The legal team, consisting of four members, divides the workload based on the case requirements. This ensures efficient handling of all matters by assigning specific tasks to team members, such as research, drafting, and client communication.

Case Prioritisation: Cases are continuously evaluated for urgency, with priority given to those with looming deadlines or those that are critical to the client’s interests. Team members are assigned accordingly to ensure all cases are covered.

6. Decision Making and Dispute Resolution (As Needed)

Internal Disagreements: In case of disagreements within the team regarding the case strategy, members present their perspectives, aiming to reach a consensus through discussion. This approach helps in considering multiple viewpoints and enhancing the decision-making process.
Client Involvement in Decision Making: Clients are involved in key decisions, especially when deciding whether to proceed with legal action or exploring alternative dispute resolutions. Their preferences and feedback are crucial in shaping the course of action.

7. Regular Updates and Communication (Ongoing)

Client Updates: Clients are regularly updated on the progress of their case, including any delays or significant developments. Transparency in communication is maintained to ensure clients are aware of the status of their matter.
Feedback and Finalization: Client feedback is sought throughout the process, especially before finalising any legal letters or submissions. This collaborative approach ensures that the client’s perspective is incorporated into the legal strategy.

Conclusion

Throughout the entire process, Pearl Lemon Legal emphasises thorough preparation, continuous communication, and strategic action. From the initial evidence review to decision-making on pursuing court action, the client is kept informed and involved. The team’s collaborative approach, combined with effective case management and prioritisation, ensures that each client receives tailored and comprehensive legal support tailored to their specific needs.