The first consultation is your chance to get real, specific guidance about your matter — but only if your attorney has the right information. Walking in organized means you leave with answers instead of a follow-up appointment to gather paperwork.
The basics
- A photo ID and any case or reference numbers
- A short, written timeline of what happened and when
- Names and contact information for everyone involved
- A list of your questions and your goals for the meeting
Documents by matter type
The documents you need depend on your case. For a business dispute, bring the contract, correspondence, and any filings. For an injury claim, bring medical records, the police or incident report, and photos. For estate planning, bring a list of assets, account information, and the names of your intended beneficiaries.
What you do not need
You do not need a legal opinion of your own, and you do not need every document perfectly organized. Bring what you have; your attorney will tell you what else is needed. The goal of the first meeting is to understand your situation and outline a path forward.