What to Ask in a Free Legal Consultation

The first meeting with a lawyer is often free or low cost, and it is the best chance you get to judge whether this is the right person before you sign anything. Go in prepared and you will learn far more in 30 minutes.

What to bring

A one-page summary of what happened, with dates, in order.
Every document you have: letters, contracts, court papers, emails, photos, police reports, insurance letters.
The names of everyone involved, including the other side and their lawyer, so the firm can check for conflicts of interest.
Any deadline you know about, especially a court date or a date on papers you were served.

Questions about your case

What are my options? A good lawyer will lay out more than one path, including doing nothing.
What are the strengths and weaknesses of my position? Be wary of anyone who sees no weaknesses at all.
Is there a deadline I need to worry about? Many claims have strict time limits.
What outcome is realistic, and how long will it take?

Questions about the lawyer

How much of your practice is cases like mine?
Who will actually do the work? A partner, an associate or a paralegal, and who do I call with questions?
How do you keep clients updated, and how fast do you reply?

Questions about money

How do you bill: hourly, flat fee or contingency? See how much does a lawyer cost.
What is the total estimate, and what could make it go higher?
Who pays court costs, expert fees and filing fees?
Can I get the fee agreement in writing before I decide?

Red flags

Guaranteeing a result. No honest lawyer can promise how a case will turn out.
Pressure to sign on the spot.
Vague answers about fees.
Not listening, or not asking you questions.

After the meeting

Take notes, and if you can, talk with two or three firms before choosing. Compare how clearly each explained your options, not just the price.

Find a general practice attorney near you to set up a first consultation.

This guide is general information, not legal advice.