Finding and hiring a lawyer

Questions to ask a lawyer at your first consultation

What to bring to a first meeting with a lawyer, and the questions that help you compare one lawyer with another. 5 min read

A first consultation is a short meeting, often 15 minutes to an hour, where you describe your problem and the lawyer decides whether they can help. It is also your chance to interview them. Going in prepared makes the meeting more useful and makes it easier to compare lawyers afterward.

Before the meeting

Write a one-page summary: what happened, in date order; who is involved; what you want; and any deadlines you know about.
Gather the key documents: contracts, letters, court papers, photos, insurance information, medical bills, emails or texts. Bring copies, not originals.
Ask in advance whether the consultation is free and how long it will be.
Write your questions down so you don't forget them.

About their experience

How much of your practice involves cases like mine?
Have you handled cases in this court, or against this kind of opponent?
Who will actually work on my case: you, another lawyer, a paralegal? Can I meet them?
Are you licensed in this state, and are there any other licenses I should know about?

About your case

What are my options, including options that don't involve going to court?
What are the main strengths and weaknesses you see right now?
What are the next steps, and roughly how long does a case like this take?
Are there deadlines I need to worry about?
What will you need from me?

Be wary of a lawyer who promises a specific result. Experienced lawyers talk about likely ranges and risks, because outcomes depend on facts, judges and opponents they cannot control.

About money

How do you charge for this kind of case: hourly, flat fee, or contingency? (See how lawyers charge.)
What is your best estimate of the total, and what could make it go higher?
Do you need a retainer up front? Is any of it refundable?
Besides your fee, what costs should I expect, such as filing fees, expert witnesses or court reporters?
How often will I get a bill, and what detail will it show?

About communication

How will you keep me updated, and how quickly do you usually return calls and emails?
Who do I contact if you are unavailable?

After the meeting

Ask yourself whether the lawyer listened, explained things in plain language and answered directly. If you decide to hire them, ask for a written fee agreement and read it before you sign; our guide to fee agreements lists what it should cover. What you tell a lawyer in a consultation is generally kept confidential even if you don't hire them; see attorney-client privilege.

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This guide is general information, not legal advice, and laws differ from state to state. For advice about your situation, talk to a lawyer licensed in your state. Last reviewed November 4, 2026.