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When entering into a legal relationship, the Lawyer Client Intake Form serves as a crucial first step for both clients and attorneys. This comprehensive document collects essential personal and citation information, ensuring lawyers have the necessary details to represent their clients effectively. Fields include the client's name, address, and contact information, along with specific details about any legal charges the client faces. The form also gathers information about the client’s driving history, previous citations, and any relevant insurance matters, which can significantly impact the case. Additionally, payment information is required, outlining how legal fees will be managed. Clients must also meet certain responsibilities, including staying informed about court dates and providing necessary documentation. This form not only streamlines the intake process for legal services but also reinforces the importance of clear communication and accountability between clients and their legal representatives.
Lawyer Client Intake Example
The Law Offices of Aaron R. Lee, PLLC
PO Box 3573
Huntersville, NC
www.ARLLawFirm.com
CLIENT INTAKE FORM
ALL INFORMATION WILL REMAIN CONFIDENTIAL
PERSONAL INFORMATION
NAME: ____________________________ |
ADDRESS: ________________________________ |
PHONE #:__________________________ |
_______________________________ |
EMAIL:____________________________ |
DOB:____________________________________ |
STATE WHERE LICENSED:_____________ |
DRIVERS LICENSE #:________________________ |
SSN:______________________________ |
DRIVERS LICENSE ISSUE DATE:_________________________ |
CITATION INFORMATION
COUNTY WHERE CITATION WAS RECEIVED:_______________ COURT DATE:______________________
WHAT WERE YOU CHARGED WITH: (If speeding, you must state the speed you were charged and speed
limit. Example: Speeding 82 in a 65 zone)___________________________________
DRIVING HISTORY
HAVE YOU RECEIVED A TICKET IN THE LAST THREE YEARS:_________ DO YOU HAVE CDL:____________
HAVE YOU RECEIVED A TICKET IN THE LAST 12 MONTHS: _________ ( IF YES, WAS IT A SPEEDING TICKET
OVER 55MPH?) _________
HAS ANYONE ON YOUR INSURANCE POLICY USED A PRAYER FOR JUDGMENT CONTINUED IN LAST 3 YEARS:___________
HAS ANYONE ON YOUR INSURANCE POLICY RECEIVED A MOVING VIOLATION CITATION IN THE LAST 3 YEARS:___________
HAS ANYONE ON YOUR INSURANCE POLICY BEEN AT FAULT IN AN ACCIDENT IN LAST 3 YEARS:___________
PAYMENT INFORMATION
PAYMENT WILL BE MADE THROUGH:_______________________________________________________
CARD NUMBER:___________________________________ |
EXP DATE:_________________________ |
TYPE OF CARD:____________________________________ |
SECURITY # ON BACK OF CARD:________ |
NAME ON CARD:__________________________________ |
BILLING ADDRESS:__________________ |
|
________________________________ |
The Law Offices of Aaron R. Lee, PLLC
PO Box 3573
Huntersville, NC
(704)
www.ARLLawFirm.com
LEGAL SERVICES AGREEMENT
This Contract for Legal Services (“Contract”), entered into by and between The Law Offices of Aaron R. Lee, PLLC, hereinafter called the “Law Firm” and
Defendant: ____________________________________
hereinafter called "Defendant".
WHEREAS, the Defendant has a need for professional legal services.
WHEREAS, the Law Firm has represented that it is qualified to and has agreed to perform such professional legal services.
NOW, THEREFORE, the Defendant and the Law Firm, with the intention of being legally bound, hereby agree as follows:
1.Scope of Representation. The Law Firm shall represent Defendant solely in the traffic matter indicated in the Defendant's Client Intake Form.
(a). This Agreement applies only to the plea of the case and does not apply to the trial, appeal or retrial of any traffic offense listed in this Agreement.
(b). Unless otherwise agreed in writing, this Agreement covers only the court date for which the Law Firm is hired and one (1) continuance. If the Law Firm has to continue a case beyond this limit due to lacking information, required documents, or prepaid Court Costs and fines from the Defendant, the Defendant agrees to pay the Law Firm
(c). This Agreement does not apply to the Law Firm having to add the Defendant's case back onto the Court docket due to the Defendant, unless that is what the Agreement is based upon.
(d). The Law Firm may waive the appearance of the Defendant, continue the case, plead the Defendant as charged, or plead the Defendant to a lesser charge, if the Law Firm reasonably believes that it would be in the Defendant's best interest.
(e). The Law Firm may employ associate counsel or "Of Counsel" attorneys at their own discretion and expense, and any attorney so employed may be designated to appear on the Defendant's behalf or undertake my representation in this matter.
2.Fees:
(a). The Defendant agrees to pay Law Firm a
(b). The Defendant agrees to pay the Law Firm in two equal payments of $________________, or;
(c). The Defendant agrees to pay the Law Firm in three equal payments of $________________.
Defendant understands and agrees that this is a fee for legal services, and does not include court costs, and no portion of the fee will be returned to the client regardless of the success of the case. This fee is treated as a fee for legal services, and it will be considered earned upon receipt.
Defendant agrees that if the Law Firm allows him to make a payment(s) under 2(b), or 2(c), then the Defendant must make the remaining equal payment under section 2(b), and must make one additional equal payment under section 2(c), within twenty business days, or before the case for which this Agreement is entered into is set to be resolved, whichever is sooner. If Defendant does not make payment within this required time, the Law Firm will not appear in Court for the defendant.
3.Other Costs. The Defendant fully understands that he shall remain at all times responsible for all court costs, fines, document costs, and all other costs as may be assessed by the court.
(a). Defendant acknowledges that if the Defendant is informed during a consultation that the Law Firm believes that Defendant’s case can be reduced to an Improper Equipment or a Prayer for Judgment Continued in Mecklenburg County or Rowan County, or if the Law Firm instructs the Defendant that it is in the Defendant’s best interest to obtain a driving record(s), then it is the Defendant’s responsibility to provide the Law Firm with a copy of the Defendant’s driving record(s), at the Defendant’s costs, prior to the court date. ______ Yes, I understand.
(b). The Defendant understands that the Law Firm is not responsible for payment of fines or court costs or any other expenses that may be imposed by the Department of Motor Vehicles of the State of North Carolina or any Court. Additionally, the Defendant understands that he is responsible for all expenses/costs regardless of the success of his case.
(c). The Defendant is solely responsible for paying all costs and fines imposed by the Court or by the Department of Motor Vehicles or the State of North Carolina, in the appropriate time frame. The Defendant acknowledges that failure to comply with the court order to pay Court costs and fines in the appropriate time may result in additional fines as well as a suspension of his driving privileges by the Department of Motor Vehicles of the State of North Carolina. Court Costs may only be paid by Cashier’s Check, Money Order or Cash.
(1). Defendant acknowledges that if a case is resolved in Iredell County, he will have 20 days after an Administrative Court and 5 days after a District Court case is resolved to pay the total court costs and fines. If payment is not received within the appropriate time, the Defendant will be subject to large fines and penalties.
(2). Defendant acknowledges that if a case is resolved in Rowan County, he must pay the court costs and fines on the day of court, or will be subject to a $20.00 penalty. Additionally, if payment is not received by the clerk of court within 20 days of the court date, the Defendant will be subject to large fines and penalties. The Law Firm will only make payment of the court costs, on the Defendant’s behalf, if the Defendant sends a Money Order made payable to the “clerk of court” for the amount directed by the Law Firm, to the Law Firm’s office, and it is received prior to the Defendant’s court date. The Law Firm will not accept payment of court costs by any other form of payment.
(3). Defendant acknowledges that if a case is resolved in Gaston County, he must have already sent to the Law Firm, a certified check or money order in the amount that was requested by the Law Firm. This payment is to be made payable to “the clerk of court” and it must be received 7 days before the Defendant’s court date or the Defendant will be subject to large fines and penalties.
(4). Defendant acknowledges that if a case is resolved in Mecklenburg County, he will have 20 days to make payment to the clerk of court within 20 days or he will be subject to large fines and penalties.
(d). The Defendant acknowledges that he can obtain the outcome and any court costs and fines of his case by contacting the Clerk of Court in the county where he received his citation. Additionally, the Defendant agrees that he will notify the Law Firm within two days of the Defendant’s court date if the Defendant has not received notification of the status of the Defendant’s case.
4.Communication. Defendant agrees to accept all communications via electronic mail (email). Please Type Email Address:_____________________________________________________.
(a). The Defendant is solely responsible for contacting the Law Firm, in writing, and updating any changes in personal or contact information.
(b). Defendant agrees to enter [email protected] into his email address book as to ensure all emails do not get redirected by a spam filter.
5.Court Dates and Attendance.
(a). The Defendant is solely responsible for being aware of his court date.
(b).The Defendant is solely responsible for being present at court at the correct time and location. Defendant acknowledges that he understands that he can obtain his court date via the court system's website or by calling the clerk of court in the county where the citation occurred.
(c). The Defendant acknowledges that he will not be contacted if his case is continued. Instead, it is the Defendant’s responsibility to either call the clerk of court to obtain the new date or visit the NC AOC website and search for his court date their.
(d). The Defendant is solely responsible for appearing at every court appearance unless the Law Firm states, in writing, that the Defendant need not appear.
(e.) The Defendant is aware that if he misses a required court date that the court will apply a "Failure to Appear" fine against him, there may also be an order for his arrest issued.
(f). The Defendant is solely responsible for any fines that might be imposed for failing to appear on a required court date, and for any costs related to an order for his arrest being issued for failing to appear on a required court date.
6.Other.
(a.) The Defendant acknowledges and agrees that the Law Firm has made no promises to the Defendant as to the outcome of the case. Also, the Defendant cannot demand any specific outcome.
(b.) The Defendant acknowledges that the Law Firm gauges the potential outcomes of a case based on the information given by the Defendant in the Client Intake Form and the Defendant’s driving record. The Defendant takes responsibility for all the information listed in the Questionnaire, and acknowledges that any errors in the Legal Service Questionnaire may cause the Legal opinions of the Law Firm to not apply to the actual and correct information pertaining to the Defendant's case.
(c). The Defendant understands that for drivers licensed in North Carolina, there are limitations on the use of a Prayer for Judgment Continued (PJC). For insurance purposes, a driver can obtain only one (1) PJC per household every three (3) years. Thus, if one member of a household receives more than one (1) PJC in three (3) years, the insurance premiums will likely rise. The Law Firm will only have access to the Defendant's driving record. Therefore the Defendant agrees to inform the Law Firm, in writing, if any member in their household has received a PJC in the last three (3) years. Absent any writing to the contrary, the Law Firm will rely on the Defendant's driving record and assume that there are no other household members who have received a PJC in the last three (3) years. PJCs will not be accepted by the Department of Motor Vehicles for the State of North Carolina for those drivers who hold
Commercial Driver's License (CDL) endorsements. It is the responsibility of the Defendant to inform the Law Firm in writing of any CDL endorsements they hold.
7.Integration Clause. This Agreement, including all referenced documents, constitutes the entire agreement between the parties. No agent, representative, employee, or officer of either the Defendant or the Law Firm has authority to make, or has made, any statement, agreement, or representation, oral or written, in connection with the Contract,
which in any way can be deemed to modify, add to, detract from, or otherwise change or alter its terms and conditions. No negotiations between the parties, nor any custom or usage, shall be permitted to modify or contradict any of the terms and conditions of the Contract. No modifications, alterations, changes, or waiver to the Contract or any of its terms shall be valid or binding unless accomplished pursuant to Paragraph 8 of this Contract.
8.Modification or Changes. The Law Firm may make modifications to this Contract at any time during the term of the Agreement or any renewals or extensions thereof. All changes to contract terms must be incorporated into a formal written amendment to this Agreement, signed by both parties, and executed in the same manner as this original Agreement and in accordance with applicable law.
9.Termination. The Law Firm may withdraw from representing the Defendant if withdrawal can be accomplished without a material adverse effect on the interests of the client, or if:
(1)the client knowingly and freely assents to the termination of the representation;
(2)the client persists in a course of action involving the firm's services that the firm reasonably believes is criminal or fraudulent;
(3)the client insists upon pursuing an objective that the firm considers repugnant, imprudent or contrary to the advice and judgment of the firm;
(4)the client fails substantially to fulfill an obligation to the lawyer regarding the Law Firm's services and has been given reasonable warning that the firm will withdraw unless the obligation is fulfilled;
(5)the representation has been rendered unreasonably difficult by the client;
(6)the client insists upon presenting a claim or defense that is not warranted under existing law and cannot be supported by good faith argument for an extension, modification, or reversal of existing law; or
(7)other good cause for withdrawal exists.
(a.) This Agreement may become null and void, at the discretion of the Law Firm, if any information entered or given by Defendant, in the Client Intake Form, is inaccurate.
10.Execution of Agreement. The Defendant acknowledges and agrees that by paying the legal service fee and by submitting this Agreement, it does not constitute a binding agreement nor has any legal representation started between the Law Firm and the Defendant. This Agreement is not binding against the Law Firm until it is signed by the Law Firm, until that time, this Agreement merely indicates an offer to enter into a legal service agreement by the Defendant. The effective date of this Agreement shall be when it is signed and entered into by the Law Firm.
11.Severability. If any part of this Agreement is found to be void, unlawful, or unenforceable then that part will be deemed to be severable from the balance of this Agreement and the severed part will not affect the validity and enforceability of any remaining provisions.
Defendant acknowledges and agrees that he has read and understood all the terms stated in this Agreement.
Defendant agrees that by checking the box and by signing this Agreement electronically, he is binding himself to the all the terms and conditions of this Agreement.
For
Defendant:_______________________________________________ Date:____________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
County of ______________________ |
Waiver of Personal Appearance |
State of North Carolina vs. ________________________________ |
|
PURSUANT TO N.C.G.S.
_________________________________ Signature. ___________ Date
File Breakdown
| Fact Name | Fact Details |
|---|---|
| Confidentiality | All information provided on the Client Intake Form is kept confidential as per applicable confidentiality laws. |
| Personal Information | The intake form collects essential personal information including name, address, phone number, email, and date of birth. |
| Legal Representation Scope | The firm represents clients solely for the traffic matters specified in the intake form, excluding trials and appeals. |
| Payment Structure | Clients may choose to pay the legal fees as a one-time payment or in several installments as outlined on the form. |
| Responsibility for Additional Costs | Clients remain responsible for all additional court costs and fines imposed by the court, separate from legal fees. |
| Court Date Attendance | It is the responsibility of the client to be aware of and attend their scheduled court dates. |
| Email Communication | Clients agree to communicate electronically, requiring an email address for formal communication regarding their cases. |
| North Carolina Regulations | Prayer for Judgment Continued (PJC) limitations apply, allowing only one per household within three years, as governed by North Carolina law. |
| Legal Services Agreement | A formal contract is created that outlines the scope, fees, and responsibilities between the law firm and the client. |
Guide to Using Lawyer Client Intake
Completing the Lawyer Client Intake form is the essential first step in getting the legal assistance you need. Make sure to be thorough and accurate in your responses. The information you provide will help your attorney understand your case better. Follow these steps carefully:
- Personal Information: Fill in your full name, address, phone number(s), email, date of birth, the state where you are licensed, driver’s license number, Social Security Number (SSN), and the issue date of your driver’s license.
- Citation Information: Indicate the county where you received the citation and the court date. Specify what charges you are facing, including speed if applicable.
- Driving History: Answer questions regarding any tickets you have received in the last three years, whether you have a CDL, and your insurance policy status pertaining to moving violations or accidents.
- Payment Information: Provide details on how you intend to make the payment. Include the type of card, card number, expiration date, security number, name on the card, and billing address.
- Review: Go over your completed form for spelling or factual errors. Ensure all sections are filled out completely.
- Submit: Send the completed form back to the Law Offices of Aaron R. Lee, PLLC via email or any other instructed method.
Once you have submitted the form, your attorney will review the information and schedule a consultation to discuss the next steps you need to take. Make sure to keep an eye on your email for further communication. Prompt responses will help keep your case moving forward efficiently.
Get Answers on Lawyer Client Intake
What is the purpose of the Lawyer Client Intake Form?
The Lawyer Client Intake Form serves as a comprehensive document that collects essential information from clients who require legal services. This form enables the law firm to gather personal details, citation information, and driving history, which are crucial for evaluating the client's case. It also serves as a foundation for the legal services agreement between the client and the firm. By completing this form, clients help ensure their legal representation is tailored to their specific needs.
Is my information kept confidential?
Yes, all information provided in the Lawyer Client Intake Form will remain confidential. Attorneys and their staff are bound by strict confidentiality rules. This means that the details you share, including sensitive personal information, will not be disclosed to any third parties without your consent. Trust is fundamental when working with a legal team, and confidentiality is a key aspect of that trust.
What if I don't know certain information needed for the form?
If you're unsure about specific details when completing the form, it's important to make a note of what you don't know or provide the best estimate you can. For example, if you cannot recall the exact date of your driver's license issuance, you can leave that section blank or indicate that you're uncertain. Once you submit the form, your attorney can assist you in resolving any gaps in information. However, accurate information will enable better legal representation, so try to provide as much detail as possible.
What happens after I submit the intake form?
After submitting the Lawyer Client Intake Form, the law firm will review your information to determine how they can assist you. A legal representative may contact you to discuss your case further or to clarify any uncertainties noted in your form. You will also receive a legal services agreement outlining the scope of representation and payment terms. Prompt communication will be established to ensure that your legal needs are met in a timely manner.
Can I update my information after submitting the form?
Yes, you can absolutely update your information after submitting the form. Clients are encouraged to notify the law firm of any changes in personal details, contact information, or case-related facts. To ensure your attorney has the most current information, contact them in writing as soon as possible. Keeping your contact information up to date is important for receiving timely updates and communications regarding your case.
Common mistakes
Completing the Lawyer Client Intake Form can be a straightforward process; however, individuals often make mistakes that could impact the effectiveness of legal representation. By being aware of these common errors, clients can ensure their information is accurate and complete, fostering a strong attorney-client relationship.
One frequent mistake is failing to provide complete contact information. Essential details like email addresses and phone numbers are vital for communication. Without accurate contact information, the law firm may face challenges in reaching clients with important updates or notifications regarding their case. Additionally, if a client changes their address or phone number after submission, notifying the law firm promptly is crucial; neglecting this could lead to missed court dates or communications.
Another common oversight occurs when clients do not fully disclose their citation history. The intake form requests specific information, such as details of any traffic tickets received in the past three years. Incomplete or omitted details can misrepresent a client’s driving history and may lead to inadequate legal advice. It's essential that all information, especially regarding past violations and their outcomes, is reported truthfully and thoroughly.
Additionally, clients sometimes misinterpret the payment section. The form requires clear understanding on how payments for legal services will be structured, whether as a one-time payment or in installments. Missteps in this area can result in unpaid fees and potential interruptions in legal representation. Clients should carefully read the options presented and ensure they understand their financial obligations before signing the form.
Finally, a misunderstanding of court date responsibilities is not uncommon. The intake form emphasizes that it is the client’s responsibility to know their court date and remain present. Clients sometimes assume that the law firm will handle all reminders concerning court appearances. When this happens, clients risk the consequences of missing a court date, including fines or potential arrest warrants. Taking responsibility to stay informed is a critical component of the legal process.
Documents used along the form
In the process of engaging legal services, several key documents accompany the Lawyer Client Intake form. Each document serves a distinct purpose, facilitating the flow of information and establishing the terms of the legal relationship between the client and the law firm.
- Legal Services Agreement: This document outlines the terms under which the law firm will provide legal representation to the client. It specifies the scope of representation, payment terms, and responsibilities of both the client and the law firm, ensuring clarity about services rendered and associated fees.
- Payment Authorization Form: Clients complete this form to authorize the law firm to charge fees to their credit or debit card. It includes details such as card number, expiration date, and security code, allowing for seamless transaction processing related to legal fees and expenses.
- Confidentiality Agreement: This document reinforces the commitment to maintain the confidentiality of all information shared between the client and the law firm. It assures clients that their personal and case-related details will be protected and not disclosed without their consent.
- Power of Attorney: In some cases, clients may need to grant the law firm the authority to act on their behalf in certain legal matters. This document enables the law firm to make decisions or perform actions as authorized by the client, streamlining procedures that require legal representation.
These forms collectively enhance the client-law firm relationship by ensuring transparent communication and providing a structure for legal proceedings. Each document plays a crucial role in safeguarding the interests of the client while outlining the obligations of the legal team.
Similar forms
- Client Information Sheet: Similar to the Lawyer Client Intake form, a client information sheet collects personal details and contact information. It usually includes a section on legal history, helping lawyers understand a client’s background and specific needs.
- Legal Medical Release Form: This form authorizes the release of medical records, much like the Lawyer Client Intake form allows clients to provide information pertinent to their legal cases. Both documents ensure confidentiality while gathering necessary data for representation.
- Client Engagement Letter: This letter establishes the terms of engagement between the lawyer and the client. Like the Intake form, it details the scope of services and client responsibilities, ensuring clarity from the start of the legal relationship.
- Retainer Agreement: A retainer agreement outlines the fees and terms of representation, mirroring the payment details found in the Lawyer Client Intake form. Both documents aim to set clear expectations regarding financial matters.
- Power of Attorney Document: This legal document grants someone authority to act on another's behalf. Similar to the Intake form, it requires personal information and aims to establish a clear understanding of the relationship and responsibilities involved.
- Confidentiality Agreement: This agreement ensures that sensitive information remains protected. As with the Client Intake form, it emphasizes the importance of privacy in the client-lawyer relationship, fostering trust.
- Case Summary Form: A case summary form provides a brief outline of the client’s situation. This is akin to the Lawyer Client Intake form as it collects essential details about the case to prepare adequate legal strategies.
- Client Feedback Questionnaire: Such questionnaires seek client input on services received. Similar to the Intake form, they gather vital information but focus on the client's perspective post-engagement, which helps in service improvement.
- Legal Service Agreement: This document outlines the services provided and expectations. Like the Client Intake form, it includes important information regarding the case and reinforces the relationship between the client and the law firm.
Dos and Don'ts
- Do read all instructions carefully before filling out the form. Ensure that each section is fully understood to avoid mistakes.
- Don't leave any sections blank. Every piece of information requested is important for your case, so be thorough.
- Do provide accurate and honest information. Any discrepancies may lead to complications in your case.
- Don't try to guess or estimate answers. If you are unsure, it's better to contact the law firm for clarification before submitting.
- Do ensure your contact information is up to date. Reliable communication is key during the legal process.
- Don't overlook the confidentiality aspect. All information provided will remain confidential, so feel free to disclose necessary details.
Misconceptions
Misconceptions about the Lawyer Client Intake Form can lead to misunderstandings. Here are seven common myths and the facts that clarify them:
- All information is public. This form is confidential. The information collected is used solely for the case and is protected by attorney-client privilege.
- You don’t need to provide accurate information. Providing accurate details is vital. Any errors can affect legal advice and potential outcomes.
- This form only collects personal details. It also gathers information about your driving history and citation details, which are crucial for providing appropriate legal representation.
- Submission of this form secures legal representation. Completing the form is just the first step. A formal agreement is required before legal services begin.
- You can ignore payment details if you're not paying upfront. Regardless of payment arrangement, the cost structure must be acknowledged upfront to avoid misunderstandings later.
- The Law Firm will follow up about your court date. The client is responsible for tracking court dates. It’s vital to stay informed to avoid penalties.
- Communication can be done through any method. The law firm may require communication via email. Keeping contact details updated is the client’s responsibility.
Understanding these points is essential for anyone filling out the Lawyer Client Intake Form. Ensuring clarity and accuracy will help in your legal process.
Key takeaways
1. Confidentiality is Key: All the information you provide in the Lawyer Client Intake Form is held in the strictest confidence. This assurance helps create a trusting environment for your case.
2. Complete Information Matters: Be thorough when filling out personal information. Accurate details on your citations and driving history are crucial for the Law Firm to effectively represent you.
3. Payment Structure: Understand the payment options available. You may choose a one-time payment or a payment plan. If you miss payments, the Law Firm will not appear in court on your behalf.
4. Responsibilities for Court Dates: You are responsible for knowing your court dates and attending them. The Law Firm will not remind you of court appearances, so maintaining awareness is crucial.
5. Keeping Communication Open: All communication will occur through email. Ensuring that you have updated your contact information with the Law Firm is vital to avoid missing important updates.
6. Additional Costs: Be aware that court costs, fines, and other potential expenses are your responsibility. The Law Firm does not cover these fees, and failing to pay them on time can lead to serious penalties.
7. Documentation Needs: If the Law Firm advises obtaining driving records or provides instructions, follow through promptly. Missing documents can delay your case or lead to unexpected costs.
8. No Promises of Outcomes: The Law Firm cannot guarantee a specific result for your case. The success of your case heavily depends on the details you provide and the circumstances surrounding your situation.