Making the Consultation Productive
A focused first meeting helps you explain the situation clearly, understand the attorney’s approach, and decide what should happen next. Before the consultation, prepare a short timeline of important events and a list of your most important questions and goals.
What to Gather
- Existing court papers, agreements, judgments, and orders
- A simple timeline with important dates and upcoming deadlines
- Key financial information relevant to the issues you expect to discuss
- Names of the people, businesses, attorneys, and courts involved
- A written list of practical concerns, desired outcomes, and questions
Organize the documents so they can be reviewed efficiently, but do not send confidential material until the firm confirms that it can receive it and provides an appropriate delivery method. Be candid about both favorable and unfavorable facts; accurate information helps an attorney evaluate the matter.
Next: Understanding the Retainer Agreement and Fees
This guide provides general information and is not legal advice.
Reviewed by Heidi T. Cochrane. Last updated August 11, 2026.