Meeting with a lawyer for the first time can be both empowering and intimidating, especially if you’ve never interacted with the legal system before. Whether you’re dealing with a personal legal matter such as divorce, starting a business, drafting a will, or facing criminal charges, understanding what to expect during your first consultation with a lawyer can help you feel more prepared and confident.
This post will walk you through everything you need to know—from how to prepare, what the lawyer might ask you, what you should ask them, and how to decide if they’re the right fit for your needs.
1. Purpose of the Initial Consultation
The first consultation serves multiple purposes for both you and the lawyer:
- You’ll explain your legal issue.
- The lawyer will assess whether they can help.
- Both of you will decide if you’re a good fit.
- You’ll get initial legal advice (to some extent).
- You’ll learn about the next steps, costs, and timelines.
Most importantly, this meeting is a two-way interview. Just as the lawyer is evaluating your case, you should be evaluating whether you feel comfortable and confident in their expertise and demeanor.
2. Preparing for the Consultation
Gather Relevant Documents
Bring any documentation related to your case. Examples include:
- Contracts or agreements
- Court documents
- Emails or written correspondence
- Financial records
- Medical reports
- Police reports or citations
- Photographs or other evidence
Organize these documents chronologically and consider making copies for the lawyer to review.
Write Down a Timeline
Lawyers appreciate a clear timeline of events. Even a simple written list of dates and occurrences can help you present your case clearly and efficiently.
List Your Questions and Goals
Think about what you want to achieve. Write down specific questions like:
- What are my legal options?
- What are the possible outcomes?
- What are the costs involved?
- What are the risks?
Having your questions written out will ensure you don’t forget anything important during the meeting.
3. What Happens During the Consultation
The structure of the consultation may vary based on the type of legal issue and the lawyer’s style, but generally, it follows this structure:
A. Introduction and Conflict Check
Most lawyers start by introducing themselves and doing a conflict-of-interest check. This ensures they haven’t represented someone whose interests are directly opposed to yours.
B. You Explain Your Legal Problem
You’ll be given the opportunity to explain your situation. Try to:
- Stick to the facts.
- Be honest and open.
- Avoid exaggeration.
- Share all relevant information—even if it seems damaging.
Remember: everything you say is confidential under attorney-client privilege, even if you don’t hire the lawyer afterward (though some exceptions exist, especially in cases involving intent to commit future crimes).
C. The Lawyer Asks Questions
The lawyer will likely ask detailed questions to clarify the facts and assess your legal position. They may also ask about:
- Key dates and events
- Other parties involved
- Prior legal steps taken
- Any documents you brought
Their goal is to understand whether you have a viable legal case and how they might be able to assist.
D. Legal Guidance and Strategy
Based on the information you provide, the lawyer may offer:
- A preliminary assessment of your case
- A general overview of the legal process
- Possible legal strategies
- Their initial opinion on the strengths and weaknesses of your case
Don’t expect comprehensive legal advice or in-depth strategy planning at this stage; that usually comes after you formally hire the attorney and they conduct a full review of your case.
E. Discussion of Fees and Billing
At some point, the lawyer will explain their fee structure, which may include:
- Hourly rates (common in litigation or complex matters)
- Contingency fees (common in personal injury cases, where the lawyer is paid only if you win)
Make sure you understand:
- What the total cost could be
- What’s included in the fees
- How billing works
- How often you’ll receive invoices
- Whether you’ll be charged for phone calls, emails, or document preparation
4. Questions You Should Ask the Lawyer
During your first consultation, ask questions to determine if this lawyer is right for your needs. Examples include:
Background and Experience
- How long have you practiced law?
- Have you handled cases like mine before?
- What was the outcome of similar cases?
Strategy and Process
- What are my legal options?
- What are the strengths and weaknesses of my case?
- What is your approach to handling a case like this?
Timeline
- How long will my case likely take?
- Are there any deadlines I need to be aware of?
- What should I do next?
Communication
- Who will be handling my case— you or someone else?
- How do you prefer to communicate (email, phone, in person)?
- How often will I get updates?
Costs
- What is your hourly rate or fee structure?
- Are there any other potential costs (court fees, expert witnesses)?
- Can you provide an estimate of total fees?
A good lawyer will answer these questions transparently and with patience.
5. Red Flags to Watch For
Not all attorneys are created equal. During the consultation, be on the lookout for warning signs, such as:
- Lack of clarity or vagueness in responses
- Guarantees of outcomes (ethical lawyers will never promise a win)
- Poor communication or listening skills
- Disorganized office or unprepared staff
- Pressure to sign a retainer on the spot
- Inattentiveness to your unique concerns
Trust your instincts. If something feels off, it probably is.
6. After the Consultation: What Comes Next
Evaluate the Experience
After the meeting, take time to reflect:
- Did the lawyer understand your issue?
- Did they answer your questions clearly?
- Do you feel confident in their ability?
- Were they respectful and professional?
Compare with Other Attorneys
If you’re not sure, schedule consultations with other lawyers. Many offer free or low-cost first meetings. Comparing different perspectives can help you make a more informed decision.
Decide Whether to Hire
If you decide to hire the lawyer:
- You’ll typically sign a retainer agreement, which outlines the scope of work and payment terms.
- The lawyer may then begin gathering evidence, drafting documents, contacting opposing parties, or filing court papers.
If you decide not to hire them, you are under no obligation to do so unless you’ve already signed a retainer.
7. Common Types of Legal Consultations
Different areas of law may involve unique questions and expectations. Here are examples of what might be discussed during consultations in various fields:
Family Law
- Child custody and visitation
- Property division
- Alimony and child support
- Mediation or litigation options
Personal Injury
- Details of the accident
- Medical treatment and costs
- Liability and fault
- Compensation expectations
Each area has its own procedures, laws, and documentation, so the consultation will be tailored accordingly.
8. Confidentiality and Privilege
One of the most important things to understand is that your conversation with the lawyer is protected by attorney-client privilege, even if you don’t end up hiring them. This legal rule ensures that anything you share in confidence cannot be disclosed to others without your consent.
However, this privilege generally applies only when:
- You’re seeking legal advice
- You communicate in private
- You intend the conversation to be confidential
This allows you to speak freely and honestly, which is critical for effective legal guidance.
9. Virtual Consultations: What’s Different?
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, many lawyers offer virtual consultations via Zoom, Skype, or phone. These are largely similar to in-person meetings, but you should still:
- Choose a quiet, private place
- Test your internet connection and microphone
- Email documents ahead of time
- Take notes during the call
Remote consultations are often more convenient, especially for clients in rural areas or with mobility limitations.
10. Final Tips for a Productive First Consultation
- Be honest: Lawyers can only help if they know the full story.
- Be organized: Clear documents and notes save time and money.
- Be realistic: Understand that legal issues can be complex, slow-moving, and uncertain.
- Take notes: You may hear a lot of unfamiliar information, so write things down.
- Don’t rush: Take time to think before hiring anyone.
Conclusion
Your first consultation with a lawyer is your opportunity to get clarity, understand your rights, and take the first step toward resolving a legal issue. Whether you move forward with that lawyer or not, the experience should leave you feeling more informed and empowered.
Remember, the right lawyer will not only have the expertise to handle your case but will also make you feel respected and understood. With the right preparation and mindset, your first consultation can set the foundation for a successful legal partnership and a positive resolution to your issue.
Law Offices of James R. Dickinson – 909-848-8448
How To Schedule A Consultation:
Please call us at 909-848-8448 to schedule a free consultation/case evaluation or complete the form immediately below. [Please note certain formalities must be completed to retain the Law Offices of James R. Dickinson, such as the signing of a legal fee agreement [see “Disclaimers”]].