You've thought about it for a while.   Maybe did a little research and asked a few knowledgeable friends without success.   You need the help of a professional to deal with this issue and have set up a consultation with a trusted Attorney.  Eeeeek!   It can be a little intimidating going to a meet a lawyer.  "Will I be interrogated?",  "I hear they are real A*@holes!" 

Here are a few tips to get the most out of your first meeting with a lawyer no matter what the area of law:

Ask a friend.   Each case is different depending on the facts, law, and circumstances.   But that lawyer who did a great job for your buddy is a great place to start if you have a similar issue.   If you are not comfortable after the meeting, or the attorney cannot help you, ask them for a referral.  A lawyer worth his salt is plenty busy and will have a list of others in his field to refer you to if he cannot help you.

Don't whine.  Yes, you came to meet the lawyer because of their experience, knowledge, and education.  And you are there for some answers.   But the one thing all lawyers want to know when they meet you is that you have reasonable expectations that can be met.   Your droning on and on about every bad break in your life is wasting valuable time.  Focus on the legal issue at hand.

Be early for your appoinment.   And if you're running late, call and let her know.   Common courtesy goes a long way!

Know your issue.  Google, lawnet, etc. will give you tons of information about the area of law you're seeking help with.   It's not all going to be accurate, but at least you have a general idea of what the process may be to address your issue.  Demonstrating to the attorney that you care and are informed about the issues will make her want to help you.  

You get what you pay for.  You wouldn't work for free and if you did it wouldn't be your best work, would it?  So expecting a professional to give you a price break never works out.    Yes, some Attorneys will give you "streamlined" options for your legal matter, but if things don't go as planned, you will be left in a pinch with no real help.    Shop around if you'd like, but good work requires lots of time and attention and is never cheap.

Respect her time.   Every Lawyer has a story about the prospective client who came in with a garbage bag full of douments.   Old tax returns, love letters from 5th grade, recipes for ceviche,  whatever!    But who had no idea how to find the paperwork related to the legal issues at hand.    Don't be that person.   At the very least, arrive with the important documents needed to review your case.

Every case is different, but being prepared can ensure you get the most out of your legal consultation.  

Decades of helping Northern Californians with their legal needs. 

José Borrego

Attorney

(916) 446-4911

Joseborregolaw.com