LEGAL GUIDANCE
Choosing and instructing a lawyer in The Gambia
Match the lawyer’s proposed work to the decision you need to make, then agree the client, scope, fees and communication arrangements.
What help do you actually need?
Describe the problem or transaction in a few sentences. Identify the people involved, the outcome sought and any deadline. A document review, a negotiation and court representation are different instructions, even where they concern the same matter.
Start with the relevant practice area and ask whether the firm can consider the proposed work. Solie Law Chambers provides information about its business practice, property services and personal and family work. A preliminary enquiry is an opportunity to establish scope, not confirmation that a lawyer is already acting.
Which questions should you ask before instructing?
- Who is the client, and who is authorised to give instructions?
- What work and deliverables are included?
- What information, documents and identification will be needed?
- How are fees, expenses and additional work agreed?
- Who will be the contact and how will progress be reported?
Ask about any issue that needs a different specialist or advice in another country. Avoid selecting solely on an unsupported promise of a result or a timetable controlled by a court, authority or other party.
How should the first information be provided?
Prepare a short chronology and document index, and flag court papers or a signing date immediately. Begin with a summary rather than sending sensitive records through an unverified social-media account.
Confirm contact and payment instructions using the firm’s established details. If a message unexpectedly changes bank details or asks for urgent payment, verify it independently before acting. Read contacting the firm online for practical precautions.
What should be agreed before work starts?
The engagement should identify the work, fee basis, separate expenses, responsibilities and how changes will be approved. Retain the agreed terms and ask for clarification when new tasks arise.
For a focused first discussion, use consultation preparation. The firm’s fees and instructions page explains the general approach. Ask directly whether an urgent deadline can be accepted; sending a message alone does not protect it.
Related guidance
Published by Solie Law Chambers. Updated . General guidance; the advice for your matter depends on its facts and applicable law.
CONTACT SOLIE LAW CHAMBERS
Describe the legal help you need
Give a short summary, the relevant parties, the outcome sought and any deadline. Tell us whether you are enquiring for yourself, a business or someone else.
Start with a brief summary. Please do not send passport numbers, bank details or sensitive documents in this first message. We can explain what is needed for the next stage.
Prefer to speak or email? +220 437 2522 · info@solielaw.gm
Read about fees and instructions. Sending an enquiry does not confirm that the firm has accepted instructions or is acting on a deadline. If your matter is urgent, telephone the office and ask whether assistance is available.