WORKING WITH A LAWYER
How to prepare for your first appointment
Seeing a lawyer for the first time can be intimidating or stressful. Taking some time to prepare for your appointment will help you get the most out of the time you have.
- Turn your mind to the issues that have brought you to see a lawyer. Write down any key relevant facts or a timeline of events.
- Bring a list of any specific questions you want answered so you can check you have got the advice you came for. Any questions which help you understand what you need to do next and how to resolve your issues are helpful.
Here are some example questions you could consider asking the lawyer you are seeing:
- Do you think what I want to achieve is realistic?
- Will I need to go to Court?
- Are there other ways to solve my problem?
- How long will my case take?
- What problems or delays could happen?
- What are the costs involved in your services?
This advice applies if you are seeing a lawyer at the Centre, a Legal Aid lawyer or a private lawyer.