Clients may either be in the form of a retainer or case basis (and this branches out to walk in clients, referral or assigned to you).
The behavior and relationship changes because the retainer is encompassing in all fronts (client-centric) while the latter is limited to the case itself. It also depends on the lawyer's practice, principles and stand. Some do not accept clients simply because of criminal ties or shady background of the client. Others tend to be the defender of such.
Perceptions arise early in the profession. Law school graduated, placement in bar, family history (in politics, family of lawyers, etc), status in society and most important is the network. If you have these elements come into play, then that is a budding career. Reputation is premium in this field.
And oh.... Suits is back tomorrow. Harvard Law rocks