Preparing to contact an attorney.

A short timeline can help an attorney understand the situation without requiring you to remember everything during the conversation.

• —What happened, in your own words
• —Important dates, places and people involved
• —What has happened since the issue began
• —Any upcoming hearing, deadline or appointment
• —What you would like help accomplishing

Bring or securely share only material connected to the issue. Keep originals unless the attorney specifically asks for them.

• —Court papers, notices, citations or government letters
• —Contracts, leases, policies or written agreements
• —Relevant emails, text messages, photographs or receipts
• —Medical, employment, financial or property records related to the matter
• —Names and contact information for witnesses or other involved people

A law office may need basic information before deciding whether it can speak with you about the matter.

• —Your full name and reliable contact information
• —Names of other people or organizations involved for a conflict check
• —The court and case number, if a case already exists
• —Your preferred language and whether you need an interpreter
• —Any accessibility or communication needs

The first conversation is also an opportunity to decide whether the attorney and office are a practical fit for you.

• —Do you handle matters like mine?
• —Who would work on my matter and who would be my main contact?
• —What possible approaches or next steps should I understand?
• —Are there important deadlines or immediate actions?
• —What information would you need before deciding whether to represent me?

Ask for clear terms before agreeing to representation. Fee structures and office practices vary.

• —Is there a fee for the first consultation?
• —Do you charge hourly, a flat fee, a contingency fee or another arrangement?
• —Will I need to pay a retainer or other costs in advance?
• —What expenses might be separate from attorney fees?
• —How will updates, questions and billing be handled?

Make sure you understand what will happen next and whether an attorney-client relationship has been formed.

• —Ask whether the attorney has agreed to represent you
• —Request any fee agreement or next-step instructions in writing
• —Confirm who will contact whom, and by what date
• —Write down any documents or actions still needed from you
• —Keep copies of anything you provide or sign