Working with a lawyer: getting the most from your first consultation
How to prepare for a first meeting with a lawyer — whatever your matter — and what to expect.
A first consultation is where your lawyer understands your situation and you understand your options. A little preparation makes it far more useful.
Before the meeting
- Write a one-page timeline of what happened.
- Gather key documents — contracts, letters, messages, receipts.
- List the people involved and how to reach them.
- Decide what outcome you want.
During the meeting
- Be completely open — what you share is confidential.
- Ask about options, risks, timelines and costs.
- Agree next steps and who does what.
After the meeting
Keep a file of all correspondence, respond promptly to requests, and tell your lawyer immediately if anything changes.
Checklist
- ☐ Timeline written
- ☐ Documents gathered
- ☐ Questions prepared
- ☐ Next steps agreed
Every situation is different — for advice on yours, speak with our team in confidence.