Your Initial Consultation

Before your first meeting with a lawyer:

• Jot down the key points in your case to share with them.
• Bring the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of everyone connected with the case.
• Bring all papers related to the case. Some lawyers may want to review the papers before your meeting.

Ask about any similar cases that the lawyer has handled.

Find out if the lawyer will handle your case personally. If the lawyer intends to have another member of the law firm handle any part of the case, you might want to talk to the second lawyer as well.

Be wary of any lawyer who guarantees results. Most lawsuits and other legal work are not “sure things.” However, a lawyer should be able to point out the strengths and weaknesses of your case.

Find out how long the lawyer expects your case to take, what steps will be involved, and what you should expect about fees and billing. If you don’t understand something, ask for a simpler explanation.

After your first meeting, ask yourself a few questions:

• Will you be comfortable working closely with the lawyer?
• Do you think the lawyer has the experience and skill to handle your case?
• Do you understand the lawyer’s explanation of what your case involves?
• Does the fee seem reasonable?

If your answer to one or more of these questions is “no,” you probably should talk to another lawyer. If all of your answers are “yes,” you may have found the right lawyer for you.