what information take to lawyer consultation

by Michelle Trantow 4 min read

The attorney will also want to gather background information, which may include: The date of the marriage Employment information of both spouses Names and ages of the children Income information, including assets and debts

What Should you bring to your initial consultation?
  • A pen and pad of paper or something to write down notes on any issues or questions that arise.
  • Take the time before you meet with your attorney to write down a list of questions. ...
  • An understanding of your financial situation. ...
  • Bring any documents relevant to your case.
Jan 7, 2021

Full Answer

How do I prepare for a consultation with an attorney?

Apr 07, 2020 · This will allow you to take notes and write down critical information, such as how much the lawyer charges. If you have documents that are critical to your case, such as contracts, court orders, or copies of communication, be sure to bring those along to your appointment.

What documents should I bring to a legal consultation?

Documents that you should bring with you may include any of the following: Contracts: If your claim arose from a contract dispute, then you should bring copies of the contract and any documents... Police or Accident Reports: If possible, you should bring any police or accident report that was ...

What should I bring to my divorce attorney appointment?

Aug 21, 2017 · Here are some of the most useful documents you can bring: Intake Form. Most family law lawyers have an intake form that gives them a snapshot of the issues and your goals, and... Agreements. If you and your spouse signed a prenuptial agreement or a postnuptial agreement (or if you’ve been working... ...

Do I need to bring documents to meet with a lawyer?

Nov 11, 2017 · The attorney will also want to gather background information, which may include: The date of the marriage Employment information of both spouses Names and ages of the children Income information, including assets and debts Whether or not there was a prenuptial agreement in place

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How do I prepare for a consultation?

Prepare For Your ConsultationBring all documents. Make copies of all the documents you have collected regarding your case and give these copies to your lawyer.Have notes ready. ... Dress for success. ... Be honest. ... Talk about costs. ... Ask your lawyer questions. ... Understand all documents you sign. ... Keep your own files.More items...

What do you wear to a consultation with a lawyer?

The standard attire for meeting with you lawyer should be business casual. Wear dress pants, a nice shirt or top. Women should wear a conservative dress or skirt. Nothing too revealing.Sep 4, 2019

What you should know before you talk to a lawyer?

10 Things You Should Know Before Contacting a LawyerHave Your Documents Ready. ... Research the Elements of Your Case. ... Don't Call if You Just Have a Question. ... You May Not Speak to a Lawyer Right Away. ... Do Not Ask the Legal Support Staff for Advice. ... Don't Provide Too Much Information. ... Answer the Lawyer's Specific Questions.More items...•Feb 6, 2020

What does consultation mean in lawyer?

In short, a legal consultation is an initial meeting with an attorney that takes place before you make the decision on whether to hire that attorney to represent you in your particular legal matter.Jul 22, 2019

What is women's business casual?

In general, business casual for women includes a skirt or slacks, a blouse, a blazer and an appropriate heel or flat for the office. Business casual do's for women include: Skirts or slacks. Staple pieces include a few pairs of dress slacks and an assortment of knee-length pencil skirts.Dec 10, 2018

What should you not say to a lawyer?

9 Taboo Sayings You Should Never Tell Your LawyerI forgot I had an appointment. ... I didn't bring the documents related to my case. ... I have already done some of the work for you. ... My case will be easy money for you. ... I have already spoken with 5 other lawyers. ... Other lawyers don't have my best interests at heart.More items...•Mar 17, 2021

How do I prepare for an attorney meeting?

Tips For Meeting With Your Lawyer For the First TimeDress To Impress. ... Be Ready To Give Your Attorney Important Information About Yourself. ... Gather Your Evidence And Have It Ready For Your First Meeting. ... Get Your Facts Straight. ... Plan Something You Can Look Forward To For After Your Meeting.

How do you start a conversation with a lawyer?

Tips for Talking to an AttorneyAlways be as honest and candid as possible about the facts of your case. ... Ask questions if you don't understand something that your attorney mentions or explains to you.Approach an attorney about your case as soon as you think you may need one.More items...•Aug 4, 2015

What does a consultation include?

A consultation is a “type of service provided by a physician whose opinion or advice regarding evaluation and/or management of a specific problem is requested by another physician or appropriate sources.”

Why would a good lawyer not tell a client how their case will come out at the initial consultation?

Why would a good lawyer not tell a client how their case will come out at the initial consultation? A good lawyer knows that every case is different and without doing research. A good lawyer will not guarantee the outcome of any case.

What does consultation at court mean?

in consultation means that the person required to consult before arriving at a decision arrives at the decision after securing the agreement or consent of the person so consulted; Sample 1.

How to prepare for a first attorney consultation?

1. Gather your documents. 2. Have your questions ready. 3. Bring something to take notes. 4. Give all the facts.

Why is it important to have a free initial consultation with an attorney?

The first attorney consultation is essential. Most attorneys offer free initial consultations so you can get to know them and their firm. Take advantage of this opportunity. Don’t be afraid to “shop around” before choosing a lawyer because it can take more than one try to find a good fit .

Can you remember what an attorney says?

You won’t be able to remember all of what the attorney says, so writing down some main points is strongly encouraged. While the initial consultation doesn’t include legal advice, you may get some more general information or opinions on your situation.

What is a free consultation?

A free consultation is essentially an appointment, either by telephone or in person, with an attorney and/or their legal team. This service is intended to grant you the opportunity to meet with the lawyer and get to know them – an important step in seeing whether you can work well together. The average free consultation is short (generally, ...

How long does a lawyer consultation take?

A consultation for a simple divorce, on the other hand, might only take about 15 minutes over the telephone.

How to write a case?

Start by writing down a list of the most important aspects of your case. Keep this short, direct, and to the point. Keep this with you when you go. It’s also wise to bring a pen and paper with you. A tablet or smartphone works, too, if you prefer technology instead.

Do lawyers offer free consultations?

Some lawyers offer free consultations, but don’t necessarily declare it on their website and/or in advertising. Don’t be afraid to be direct and ask for a free consultation if you feel one is warranted. Most firms know how important this initial appointment is to ensure you’re both a good fit for one another.

Is it better to hire a lawyer or a lawyer?

It is far better to connect with a true legal expert – a lawyer – instead. The law is complex and rife with grey areas that aren’t always easy for the average layperson to understand. An attorney is best equipped to help you navigate your case. In most cases, hiring a lawyer starts with an initial consultation.

Can you ask for a consultation in California?

Once you identify someone suitable, you can ask them to arrange a consultation directly. All legal referral services are regulated and mandated by the California Bar. They must provide you with recommendations that are truly in your best interests at all times. You can trust them to find the right person for the job.

How to prepare for a consultation with an attorney?

Before consulting with an attorney you should make sure that you properly prepare for the consultation by gathering any and all documents that are relevant to your case. It is important to bring every document you have for the attorney to review, as they will be able to properly determine which documents are relevant, and which are not.

How to consult with an attorney?

Before consulting with an attorney you should make sure that you properly prepare for the consultation by gathering any and all documents that are relevant to your case. It is important to bring every document you have for the attorney to review, as they will be able to properly determine which documents are relevant, and which are not. Documents that you should bring with you may include any of the following: 1 Contracts: If your claim arose from a contract dispute, then you should bring copies of the contract and any documents explaining the contract; 2 Police or Accident Reports: If possible, you should bring any police or accident report that was created as a result of the incident you were involved in; 3 Property Deeds: If your claim involves a property dispute, you should be sure to bring a copy of the deed or any documents relating to the property, such as an oil and gas lease, etc.; 4 Employment Records: If you claim is an employment dispute, then you should bring all of your employment records, such as your employment contract, employment agreements, or timesheets; or 5 Other Documents Evidencing Damages: Other important documents to bring include any evidence of damages, such as medical records or expenses, or any warranties or letters created by the party you are trying to sue.

What is legal advice?

Legal advice is advice given to a person that seeks the advice from an attorney, the advice given pertains to matters within the attorney’s competence, and the attorney expressly or impliedly agrees to give advice or their assistance in the matter. If such legal advice is given an implied attorney-client relationship may be formed between you ...

What is legalmatch database?

An attorney database, such as LegalMatch’s database, is helpful in assisting you in locating the right attorney for your particular legal issue. However, it is important to remember that a legal consultation alone will often not provide a full solution to your legal problem, as it is only the first step in resolving your legal issues.

What is a legal consultation?

In short, a legal consultation is an initial meeting with an attorney that takes place before you make the decision on whether to hire that attorney to represent you in your particular legal matter. Further, the attorney will also use the consultation in order to determine if they can legally and competently represent you based on ...

Why is it important to be honest during a legal consultation?

Another reason to be completely honest during a legal consultation is that legal consultations will always be confidential. This means that what you discuss with an attorney will not be discussed outside the meeting room.

What documents are needed to bring a lawsuit?

Other Documents Evidencing Damages: Other important documents to bring include any evidence of damages, such as medical records or expenses, or any warranties or letters created by the party you are trying to sue.

1. Bring Any Documents Related to the Accident

Keep all documents you receive regarding the accident, your injury, or an insurance claim. It is a good idea to create folders for various documents related to the accident. You may want to create an accident folder, medical treatment folder, financial losses and expenses, and insurance claim folder.

2. Write Down Everything You Remember About the Accident

Start a journal as soon after the accident as possible. Write down everything you remember about the accident. Time can make memories and details fade, so it is best to get those details on paper while they are fresh in your mind.

3. Bring a List of Questions to Ask the Attorney

After the attorney asks a series of questions to get an idea about the case, you have an opportunity to ask the attorney questions. It can be easy to forget your questions during the consultation. Writing those questions day in advance of the appointment can be helpful.

5. You are not Required to Hire the Lawyer

You are not under any obligation to hire an attorney or law firm after a free consultation. The consultation is confidential and free of charge. Whether you want to hire the attorney is up to you.

6. The Attorney May Not Take Your Case

The attorneys are also not under any obligation to take your case after a free consultation. There are many reasons why an attorney may not take your case. Common reasons include:

What is an intake form for family law?

Most family law lawyers have an intake form that gives them a snapshot of the issues and your goals, and gives them important details about you and your family. At McCabe Russell, we don’t require you to fill it out our intake form advance, but if you can, it helps us move forward. Agreements.

What information does a credit card statement contain?

Other debt information (car loans, credit card debt, etc). As with the other documents, credit card statements contain a ton of information that can be useful to your attorney – the debt information, of course, but your history of spending (and your spouse’s) can also assist your attorney as you move forward. Text Message History.

What to do if you have been keeping a calendar of events?

Calendars/Journals. If you’ve been keeping a calendar of events or journaling, you should consider bringing those to help jog your memory about timeline and events. Inflammatory Documents. Don’t hold back from your attorney.

What information do divorce attorneys need?

Along with the details of your case, the divorce attorney will also gather some basic personal information, including your: address, phone number and email address. The attorney will also want to gather background information, which may include:

What is the purpose of a divorce consultation?

The main purpose of the consultation is to discuss your case. Essentially, you are having a conversation with the lawyer about your pending divorce, and you should be the one doing most of the talking.

What is the first consultation?

The initial consultation is a great opportunity to get a “feel” for the attorney and determine whether he or she is a good fit for you. Asking questions can help you gauge the attorney’s competence and whether you will get along well.

What to discuss at the end of a lawyer meeting?

Towards the end of the meeting, the attorney will discuss the fees charged for his or her services. The attorney should divulge his or her hourly rate as well as the amount of the initial retainer and how often you will be billed for services.

How to get divorce information?

Along with the details of your case, the divorce attorney will also gather some basic personal information, including your: address, phone number and email address. The attorney will also want to gather background information, which may include: 1 The date of the marriage 2 Employment information of both spouses 3 Names and ages of the children 4 Income information, including assets and debts 5 Whether or not there was a prenuptial agreement in place

What are the issues that a divorce attorney will discuss?

After gathering information about your case, the attorney will discuss any potential issues that you may face during the divorce, such as custody and parenting time. Financial aspects will also be discussed, including child support, alimony, equitable distribution, college tuition, real estate, debts and other assets.

1. Bring A List of Prepared Questions

Going through a divorce is an emotional process, but don’t let yourself mistake a divorce consultation for a therapy session. Remember, this is a time to ask legal questions and get answers you cannot find from other people.

2. Bring Real Estate Information to Your Divorce Consultation

Make sure you bring along any information about the property you and your partner own. You’ll want to grab things like your escrow papers, mortgage statements, and deeds.

3. Bring Relevant Legal Documents to Your Divorce Consultation

Throughout the length of your marriage, you might have gathered a large amount of legal paperwork. You should bring as many of these relevant documents as you can remember.

4. Bring Pay Stubs and Tax Returns to Your Divorce Consultation

Your lawyer will want to know how much money you and your spouse make for the household. To give them a good idea of how your income breaks out, bring the three most recent paystubs from both you and your partner if possible.

5. Bring Incriminating Evidence (If You Have It) to Your Divorce Consultation

You might not have any incriminating evidence, but if you do, make sure you bring it along. This evidence might include photos, videos, notes/messages, or social media posts relating to the divorce. This evidence might be proof of things like cheating or abuse.

Getting a Divorce Consultation

Make sure you go into your divorce consultation with an open mind. You might want to get certain things out of the divorce, but you might not get them all. Instead, make sure you listen to your lawyer’s expert advice.

What to talk about at a lawyer consultation?

At the consultation, be prepared to talk about your case. The lawyer may not too many details of your case before you sign a fee agreement, but you should be prepared just in case.

What to do if a lawyer doesn't ask for documentation?

Even if a lawyer doesn't ask for documentation beforehand, it's still a good idea to bring a copy of all relevant documents to the meeting. Spend some time thinking about what you may have on hand. Try to organize the documents in a logical manner before you meet with the lawyer.

What does a probate lawyer want to know?

In addition to a general understanding of your legal needs, the lawyer may want to know who else is involved with the case and their relationship to you. For example, in some probate matters, a client visits the lawyer to seek help for his or her parents or siblings.

How to save money on legal fees?

To save money on legal fees, take the time to select a good lawyer, prepare well for your first meeting, and do everything you can to reduce the time that lawyer will have to spend on your case . Even eliminating one email exchange could save you hundreds of dollars.

How to start a relationship with an attorney?

After you decide on which attorney to hire, you’ll sign a fee agreement and officially begin your relationship with your lawyer. The first meeting with an attorney usually involves the exchange of a lot of information. You will spend a good deal of time explaining to the attorney the details of your legal issue and answering his or her questions. He or she will spend a good amount of time discussion and laying out a plan. If you think you might get nervous or forget something, you could practice this conversation with a friend, or you could write down what you want to say.

What happens at your first meeting with an attorney?

The first meeting with an attorney usually involves the exchange of a lot of information.

Do lawyers charge for consultations?

Attorney consultations vary, depending on the attorney’s preferences. Some lawyers charge for a consultation, others don’t. Some will only hold consultations over the phone, but some will let you come in (this is best, so that you can get a better feel for the attorney).

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