How do you start talking to a lawyer?

Asked by: Easton Walsh PhD  |  Last update: December 2, 2025
Score: 4.1/5 (61 votes)

Most often, you'll have a short phone call with the lawyer. If that goes well, you follow up with an in-person meeting. If you aren't yet certain you plan to hire this lawyer, be sure to ask whether they charge for an initial consultation. Some lawyers do free first consultations.

How do you start a conversation with a lawyer?

First time speaking to a lawyer? Let's make this easy, start with “hello.”
  1. There is no such thing as a quick question.
  2. Collect your thoughts, find the time, and find the place to have the conversation.
  3. Let the lawyer lead the conversation and ask the questions.
  4. Patience.

What do you say when contacting a lawyer?

  • How to Talk to Lawyers when you first contact a law firm
  • DO: Give us information that will let us contact you.
  • DON'T: Give us your entire life story.
  • DO: Tell the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth to the attorney and their staff.
  • DON'T ask the paralegal or assistant for legal advice.

Can you just talk to a lawyer?

In California, as in other states, free legal advice is available by simple calling 1-800-THE-LAW2 and getting connected to one of the attorneys in our network. In fact, we've been serving Californians and the local community since the 1980s.

What to wear when meeting a lawyer for the first time?

Good question. The short answer is dress comfortably -- you don't need to wear a suit or anything formal. Attorneys often wear suits in the office, but we don't expect potential clients to do the same when coming in for a consultation.

Talking to a Lawyer | Conversation Between a Client and a Lawyer

36 related questions found

How do I prepare for my first meeting with a lawyer?

Before your first meeting with a lawyer:
  1. Jot down the key points in your case to share with them.
  2. Bring the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of everyone connected with the case.
  3. Bring all papers related to the case. Some lawyers may want to review the papers before your meeting.

How do I present my case to a lawyer?

Here are five helpful tips to ensure a pleasant experience and (hopefully) a successful outcome.
  1. Get organized. Try to create a clear, comprehensive story of your situation. ...
  2. Be detailed. Seemingly frivolous details like the weather may, at first, seem dismissible. ...
  3. Be honest. ...
  4. Ask to clarify. ...
  5. Keep them informed.

Does it cost money just to talk to a lawyer?

Initial consultation fees vary. Some lawyers charge their usual hourly rate for an initial consultation, some charge a reduced rate, and some offer them for free.

How long before court should you get a lawyer?

It's good to do it as soon as possible, because the lawyer will have a far more time to work on your case, also you will be able to provide him/her will all the facts and so the lawyer can prepare perfectly for your case.

What not to say to your lawyer?

Eight Things You Shouldn't Say to Your Lawyer
  • Do Not Say Anything to Your Attorney That Is Not True. ...
  • Do Not Exaggerate Your Injuries When Talking to Your Lawyer. ...
  • Do Not Tell Your Lawyer to Act On Your Behalf and Take Other Action Without Their Awareness.

What is it called when you first talk to a lawyer?

All attorneys meet with prospective clients in what is called an initial consultation. This is a first meeting between you and the lawyer to help you both decide whether you want to work together in an attorney-client relationship.

What is the proper way to call a lawyer?

In any case, the general rule of thumb is to use the title 'Esq. ' only in a professional context and ensure that the attorney's full name precedes it. Mastery of this form of address demonstrates respect and familiarity with proper legal decorum.

What to say when talking to a lawyer?

Always be as honest and candid as possible about the facts of your case. The more your attorney knows, the more he or she can help you. Ask questions if you don't understand something that your attorney mentions or explains to you. Approach an attorney about your case as soon as you think you may need one.

What is a good opening statement for a lawyer?

Simplicity is key in an opening statement. Avoid overwhelming the jury with too much information. Focus on the most critical aspects of your case and present them in a clear, straightforward manner. Use simple, direct sentences and avoid technical terms.

Do you have to pay a lawyer upfront?

In some instances, a lawyer may ask you to pay a certain amount before they begin to work on your case. The attorney then bills his expenses and time against the retainer fee as your case progresses.

How much money do you need for an attorney?

Hourly fees

It's common practice for lawyers to charge an hourly rate. An hourly fee covers the time a lawyer spends working on a client's case. Attorneys typically charge $100 to $400 per hour. However, hourly fees vary depending on location, attorney experience, and practice area.

How much do most lawyers charge for a will?

It's very common for a lawyer to charge a flat fee to write a will and other basic estate planning documents. The low end for a simple lawyer-drafted will is around $300. A price of closer to $1,000 is more common, and it's not unusual to find a $1,200 price tag.

Do lawyers charge for every phone call?

Your attorney should advise you if they will charge for phone calls, emails, text messages, and other brief communications. Some clients call their attorneys repeatedly and then receive large bills for phone meetings.

How do I know if I need a lawyer?

Situations Where You Might Need a Lawyer

Being accused of a crime, arrested for DUI/DWI, or other misdemeanors or felonies. Family law issues, such as prenuptials, divorce, child custody, or domestic violence. Business legal matters, including incorporation, purchase, sale, or dissolution.

When should you talk to a lawyer?

Many clients ask us when to talk to a lawyer for the best legal outcomes for themselves. The best time to talk with a lawyer is before an arrest happens. If you think trouble is starting, such as the police investigating you or talking to your friends, family, and workplace, you need to act.

What to do before talking to a lawyer?

Tips for preparing for a legal consultation
  1. Be prepared to answer questions: At your consultation, the lawyer will ask you questions concerning your case. ...
  2. Bring copies of any relevant documents: Make sure to come to your consultation with any documents that pertain to your case.

What are two questions one should ask of their attorney?

Here is a handy checklist of basic questions to ask before you hire a lawyer: What is your experience in this field? Have you handled matters like mine? What are the possible outcomes of my case? What are my alternatives in resolving the matter?

What are six examples of cases when a lawyer should be contacted?

When you need to hire a lawyer
  • You are in over your head. ...
  • You could go to jail. ...
  • You could lose a lot of money. ...
  • Your opponent has an attorney. ...
  • Bodily injury is involved. ...
  • You are in a complicated divorce. ...
  • You need to administer the estate of someone who died. ...
  • You want to do comprehensive estate planning.