Choosing an attorney is an important decision. An initial consultation gives you an opportunity to explain your situation, but it is also your chance to determine whether the attorney is a good fit.
Preparing questions in advance can help you compare your options.
Do You Handle Cases Like Mine?
Legal matters often involve several events occurring over a period of time.
Start by asking whether the attorney regularly handles your type of legal matter.
Legal practice covers many specialized areas, and an attorney who focuses on one area may have limited experience in another.
What Are My Options?
An attorney may not be able to predict exactly what will happen, especially during an initial consultation. However, the lawyer should generally be able to explain potential options and the legal process that may apply.
Ask about possible advantages, disadvantages, and risks associated with different approaches.
Who Will Work on My Case?
In some firms, the attorney you meet initially may handle most of your matter personally. In others, paralegals, associate attorneys, investigators, or other professionals may also be involved.
Understanding who will be working on your case can help establish expectations.
You might want to ask about possible legal options, expected timelines, attorney fees, communication practices, and what happens next.
How Will We Communicate?
Ask how the firm normally communicates with clients and how quickly you can generally expect responses.
You can also ask how often updates are provided and who you should contact when questions arise.
How Do Your Fees Work?
Ask for a clear explanation of the attorney's fee structure.
Important questions may include whether the lawyer charges hourly, requires a retainer, uses a flat fee, or works on a contingency basis. You should also ask about expenses that may be separate from attorney fees.
What Should I Do Next?
Before leaving the consultation, ask whether there are documents you should gather, deadlines you need to know about, or actions you should take immediately.
You may also want to ask whether there are things you should avoid doing while the matter is pending.
Make the Consultation Work for You
You do not have to ask dozens of questions. Focus on the issues that will help you understand the attorney's experience, approach, communication style, and fees.
The more information you gather, the better prepared you may be to choose legal representation that fits your particular situation.
This article provides general information and is not a substitute for advice from a licensed attorney.