What to ask at a first consultation

A first consultation is a chance for you and a lawyer to decide whether to work together. Many firms offer the first meeting free or at a set price; ask when you book.

Before the meeting

• Write down the key dates: when something happened, when you received papers, any court dates.
• Gather documents: letters, notices, contracts, photos, bills, court papers.
• Note what you want to happen. "I want this to stop" and "I want to be paid for my losses" lead to different conversations.

Questions about the lawyer and the firm

• How often do you handle matters like mine, and in which courthouses?
• Who would work on my matter day to day, and who would I contact with questions?
• How quickly do you usually return calls and emails?

Questions about the matter

• What are the main steps from here, and roughly how long does each take?
• Are there deadlines I need to know about right now?
• What could change the plan?

Questions about money

• How do you charge: hourly, a flat fee or a contingency fee? (See hourly, flat and contingency fees.)
• What costs are separate from your fee, such as court filing fees, court reporters or outside consultants?
• Will I get a written engagement agreement?

After the meeting

You don't have to decide on the spot. It is reasonable to meet more than one firm before you choose, and to check each lawyer's registration with the ARDC (see how to check a lawyer's registration).

General information, not legal advice. A consultation does not by itself make you a firm's client.