Updated July 31, 2024

What to Expect at an Initial Consultation With a Lawyer

You may decide to consult with a personal injury lawyer after an injury if you believe it could have been prevented and someone else may be at fault. After doing your research, you decide to call a lawyer to set up an initial consultation. With the days and hours ticking down until your appointment, you wonder what will occur and how you can make the most of your discussion.

This process might feel intimidating if you’ve never hired an attorney before. Read on to learn what to expect during your initial consultation with a lawyer and what you can do to prepare.

What Is the Purpose of the Initial Consultation?

Many people wonder how to decide if they need a personal injury attorney after an injury. If you are still trying to decide, a consultation with an attorney can help you. During this meeting, your attorney will discuss the facts of your case and briefly review any documents or other evidence you may have.

After discussing your case, the attorney should have enough information to know whether they are a good fit for your case. If they believe a different attorney or specialty is a better fit, they may refer you to another law firm instead. Similarly, they may believe your case needs more evidence to pursue a claim.

Suppose the lawyer does believe you should pursue a case. In that case, they may discuss your damages with you and give you an idea of how long the process might take. They will let you know about the cost of hiring a lawyer. You will also have the opportunity to ask any other questions that you may have. If you decide this lawyer is a good fit for you and your case, the next step is to sign a contract with them. You are not obligated to sign a contract if you feel the lawyer isn’t the right fit or if you intend to consult with other lawyers first.

How to Prepare for Your Initial Consultation With an Attorney

Before your appointment, you should gather any documentation you have. Depending on your case, this may include:

  • Medical records
  • Medical bills
  • Emails and letters
  • Witness statements
  • Photographs and videos

The attorney will review any documentation you can provide, which will help the attorney determine how strong your case is. The attorney will review any documentation you can bring them. This will help them determine how strong your case is. If they need additional documentation later on, they can help you compile it.

Next, you should consider what questions you have for your lawyer. Some common questions are:

  • What type of damages should I receive?
  • How long could the case take to resolve?
  • What is your fee structure?
  • Will I have to pay anything if the court doesn’t grant me any damages?
  • Who else will be working on my case?

Before your consultation, write down your questions so you don’t forget.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Initial Consultation

How Long Is a Consultation With a Lawyer?

When you meet with a lawyer for the first time, the lawyer will talk to you about your case, and you will both be able to ask each other questions. This process usually takes about 30-60 minutes. If you and the lawyer decide to work together, you will have time to discuss your case in more detail later.

Where Does the Consultation Take Place?

Where your consultation takes place depends on the law firm. At Wilson Kehoe Winingham, a staff member will first have a brief phone conversation with you. This conversation will help us confirm whether we practice the right type of law for your case, and it will help us determine which of our lawyers will be best suited to assist you.

When we set up your in-person consultation, we prefer to meet anywhere the client is comfortable. Our attorneys have met with clients in our offices, the client’s home, a coffee shop, the hospital, or even via Zoom. When you schedule a consultation with us, let us know where you prefer to meet.

How Much Does a Consultation Cost?

Depending on the type of consultation and field of law, an attorney may or may not charge for a consultation. If you hire an attorney to review a contract or give legal advice, they may charge per hour or have a set fee for this session.

On the other hand, for a personal injury case, the initial consultation is usually done at no cost. The purpose of the consultation is not to provide comprehensive legal advice but to determine if the lawyer and the case are a good match. If they are, this initial consultation meeting will be just the beginning of your legal relationship.

Schedule Your Free Initial Consultation Now

If you’re ready to schedule a free consultation with one of the personal injury attorneys at Wilson Kehoe Winingham, call us today or fill out our contact form. One of our staff members will contact you to discuss your case.

Request a Free Consultation

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Let WKW put our experience to work for you. Contact us for your free case evaluation.

 

Or, call us today at (317) 920-6400

Located In Indianapolis
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