Use legal titles correctly (attorney, notary, paralegal)
Choose between formal and neutral greetings
Explanation
In legal settings, first impressions depend on formality. Use 'Good morning' or 'Good afternoon' with a title and surname: 'Good morning, Ms. Rojas.' In English, 'Licenciado/Licenciada' has no direct equivalent; introduce yourself as 'attorney' or 'lawyer' and, if relevant, 'attorney and notary public'. Avoid calling a client by first name until they invite you to do so.
attorney
A person licensed to represent clients and give legal advice.
“I am an attorney specialising in family law.”
paralegal
A trained assistant who supports lawyers with legal tasks but cannot give legal advice.
“Our paralegal will prepare the documents.”
law firm
A business formed by lawyers to provide legal services.
“She works at a law firm in San José.”
notary public
In Costa Rica, a lawyer authorised to give public faith (fe pública) to acts and documents.
“He is an attorney and notary public.”
counsel
A lawyer or team of lawyers advising a client; also legal advice itself.