What Should a Client Bring to an Initial Consultation?

What Should a Client Bring to an Initial Consultation?

As an attorney, I often meet with potential clients who have never had to retain an attorney.  Many times they have never even spoken with an attorney or visited an attorney’s office, so the idea of meeting with an attorney can be very overwhelming and scary.  Being prepared for an initial consultation can often help to alleviate some of those fears.  There are several things a potential client can do in preparation for a successful first meeting with an attorney.  The following are just some of the tips that I have found to be most helpful:

1. Bring a pen and paper with you to take notes;
2. Have some questions written out for the attorney prior to your meeting;
3. Bring any documents, that are relevant to your case, with you to the meeting;
4. Bring any photos, that are relevant to your case, with you to the meeting;
5. Ask ahead about any consultation fees, so you are aware if you need to pay for the initial consultation;
6. Bring your driver’s license or other form of ID;
7. Depending on the type of legal issue you are meeting about, you may want to bring your health insurance card and/or applicable insurance declaration page;
8. Bring names, addresses and phone numbers of any witnesses and/or any written witness statements you may have;
9. If relevant, bring copies of any police reports;
10. Ask questions and discuss attorney fees; and
11. Be honest and give the attorney as many details as you can.

Hopefully, if you follow these tips it will help make your initial consultation with an attorney a success.