One must always be sure it is in the best interest of the client to make such a referral. If referral sources are competent, there will be no worries about accepting or making referrals to them. In case of disagreement with the advice or direction a referral source is giving to a mutual client, the referral source should be contacted to discuss any problems, prior to discussing them with the client. The problem may be a misunderstanding that can be corrected. If any such problem cannot be resolved, the attorney has a duty to explain the differences to the client.
Most satisfied clients are willing to make referrals.
The time immediately following the successful completion of a legal matter is when to ask that client for a referral. It is strongly recommended that the client be asked for a referral prior to using the client's name. Few clients like to make referrals without their permission. The development and maintenance of a referral network is an excellent technique for marketing a practice and obtaining legal business from attorney and non-attorney sources. A successful referral base will require work and take time to establish, as well as patience and persistence.