A first meeting with a lawyer is more useful when the lawyer has the facts and documents in front of them. The points below will help you prepare, whatever the type of matter.
Write a short timeline
List the key events in date order: what happened, when, and who was involved. One page is enough. Include the dates of any notices, payments or conversations that matter.
Gather the relevant documents
- Contracts and agreements, signed or in draft
- Letters, notices, emails and messages
- Invoices, receipts and statements
- Court papers or official documents you have received
- Identification documents and any reference numbers
Note the people and organisations involved
Write down the full names of the other parties and, if you know them, the names of their lawyers. This allows the firm to check for conflicts of interest before it advises you.
Decide what you want to achieve
Think about the outcome you are hoping for and what you would regard as acceptable. A lawyer can then advise you on whether that outcome is realistic and how it might be reached.
Mention deadlines at the start
If there is a court date, a notice period or any other deadline, say so at the beginning of the conversation. Time limits can affect the options available to you.
Be candid
Share the facts that are unhelpful as well as those that help you. Advice based on the full picture is more reliable, and what you tell your lawyer in seeking advice is treated as confidential.
This article is general information and is not legal advice. If you would like to discuss your situation, please contact us.
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