10 Tips for a Successful Legal Consultation

At MedMalFirm.com, we offer every potential client a free legal consultation. In order to get the most out of your consultation, check out these 10 tips for a successful legal consultation from our Houston medical malpractice attorney.

10 Tips for a Successful Legal Consultation

Remember these tips as you prepare to meet with an attorney for the first time.

1. Dress appropriately for a business meeting.

Most clients are a bit anxious about the initial legal consultation. Dressing well can help you feel confident and in control of your situation.

2. Outline your legal problem.

Preparing an outline of your legal problem helps highlight the main issues in your case. You can use this outline during a consultation as a guide for you and the attorney.

3. Bring all documents you have collected.

It is very helpful to bring any documents you have collected about your case to the initial meeting. This helps the attorney get a clearer picture of your situation.

4. Organize your thoughts and questions.

Make a list of any thoughts, questions, or concerns you have about your case, the attorney, or the legal process. Keep a copy and give one to the attorney so you can address them as needed. A consultation is only a short period of time, and you don’t have to worry about covering every detail up front.

5. Be honest. Your consultation is private.

Medical malpractice and nursing home abuse cases often involve very personal matters. It can be difficult to express your thoughts and feelings to someone you aren’t familiar with. However, it is important to always be honest and open about your situation and details of your case. Anything you share with an attorney during a legal consultation is confidential.

6. Listen to the attorney and take notes.

You are an active participant in the legal process, and there may be some tasks that an attorney asks you to complete. Listen to the attorney and take notes about any tasks that you can do to help build your case.

7. Talk about fees before hiring.

Many attorneys work on a contingency fee basis. That means that the attorney getting any compensation for taking the case is contingent on your getting an award (verdict or settlement).

8. Ask for copies of any documents you leave.

If there are any documents that you only have one copy of, ask if the attorney can make copies for you before you leave.

9. Read any documents carefully before signing.

Before signing any document, read over it carefully and make sure you understand it. If you have questions about something in one of the documents, ask before you sign it. This is a good practice with any sort of document or contract.

10. Make sure you have appropriate contact info.

Before concluding your legal consultation, make sure that you and the attorney exchange appropriate contact information. Make sure you provide your address, telephone numbers, email address, and a secondary way to contact you (friend or family member) if applicable.