How do I prepare for my first meeting with my attorney?
Your initial consultation is the best time for you to ask questions. You are interviewing the attorney, keep that in mind. Write out several questions before you go. (sample questions below) Do not be embarrassed to ask questions about experience, qualifications, and cost. Make sure this lawyer is comfortable handling your kind of case. Be sure you are answered adequately, not leaving you more confused than when you came in.
Write down all the facts of the case before you go. Be upfront and honest, even if some of the facts are unflattering. The attorney needs to know the whole scope of the case to avoid any unpleasant surprises and give accurate assessments. Writing the facts down before you go will help you remember everything and the lawyer can understand all the implications of your case.
Make a timeline of events.
Of course, you also want to bring all relevant documents for the attorney to look over. Having all the information at hand will save the attorney time and you money. This may include all correspondence with any interested parties (especially the other side), contracts, tax forms, receipts, deeds, etc.
Have a list of the names, addresses and telephone numbers of all persons or organizations involved.
Prepare a copies of all documents and have them organized in a notebook so your lawyer can easily access the information.
What questions should I ask an attorney at our first meeting?
- Does this issue really require an attorney, or at least strongly recommend itself the services of one?
- If so, are you interested in handling this type of case? If not, can you refer me to someone who would be?
- What is your experience in this area of practice?
- How many cases like mine have you handled? How closely related were they?
- What percentage of your practice is devoted to this kind of issue?
- Will you actually be working on my case? (this is most appropriate in a larger law office.) If not, find out who would be, and meet them as well before agreeing to the case assignment.
- What are my alternatives in resolving this matter other than litigation? (Give serious consideration to any alternative resolutions or settlement offers your attorney may suggest.)
- How long do you estimate it will take?
- Am I facing any pending legal deadlines?
- What are your rates and how will the billing be handled?
- What will be the estimated total costs and fees to resolve my case? Does it then make economic sense to proceed? (He should be able to give some kind of estimate.)
- What can I do to help keep the costs and fees down? (hint: don\'t contact your attorney any more than necessary)
- When you are busy, who else in your office would I contact about my case?
- If I call you and am unable to reach you, how long should I expect to wait before hearing a response?
- What other documentation do you need from me to get started?
Disclaimer: This website is not equivalent to legal advice, and should not be relied upon as such. Any specific questions concerning your legal rights should be presented your attorney.
