CONSULTATION GUIDE
Your first consultation: what to bring
Bring the documents you have, a short account of what happened and your questions. Here is how to prepare, even if you are still waiting for some records.
Start with a short timeline
Write down what happened, where it happened and approximately when. Note what you remember clearly and what you are unsure about. A simple account is more useful than trying to fill in missing details.
Bring the documents you already have
Collect relevant reports, correspondence and photographs in one place. If something is missing, make a note of it. You can ask the office which documents would be most useful before your appointment.
Write down your questions
Think about what you want to understand: whether the firm handles this type of matter, what further information is needed and how communication would work. Ask about the scope of any proposed representation and its fee arrangements.
Know what a first conversation means
An initial discussion helps both you and the firm understand whether working together may be appropriate. Representation is a separate decision. Ask how the engagement process works before assuming that the firm is acting for you.

