You're Going on an Initial Consultation. What Should You Expect?

Note: this post will be the first in a small series about initial consultations.

I am using the term "initial consultation" to refer to that first meeting between you and a lawyer. What should you expect during that meeting? Well, beyond a few basics, you'll get at least one different answer from each lawyer you talk to. (Reminds me of the quip about economists and other professions: "[Insert profession] has many hands. Ask them a question, and they will say, "On one hand..., on the other hand..., but on the other hand...")

Generally, you will meet with a lawyer for anywhere from a half hour to 90 minutes, and explain the details of your case as you understand them. The lawyer may be listening, may ask a few questions, or may even guide the discourse entirely. You may or may not have to fill out a form. You may or may not have to pay for the consultation. Most of these factors are pretty much out of your control (except for the cost of course) and you should probably not worry about them too much. I would even go so far as not to worry about the cost of the consultations because they won't be too expensive, unless you're strapped for cash or you plan on seeing multiple attorneys. (Which, incidentally, isn't a bad idea- you'd get a second opinion on an important medical question, right?)