What to Bring to Your First Attorney Consultation

Bring anything related to your matter: contracts, letters, court papers, police reports, photos, medical or financial records, and a written timeline of what happened. The more your attorney can see, the better they can advise you.

Ask how they'd approach your case, the likely timeline and outcomes, how fees work, and who you'll communicate with. Write your questions down beforehand so you don't forget them in the moment.

A first consultation is about understanding your situation and options — not solving everything at once. Contacting an attorney does not by itself create an attorney-client relationship; that begins when you both sign a representation agreement.