Before you call a lawyer
What to Bring to a Lawyer: Preparing for a Case Review
People often ask what information helps a lawyer evaluate a case and what to bring to an initial consultation. This article outlines common items that can make that first conversation more productive.
A clear, factual timeline
Many lawyers start by asking what happened, when it happened, and who was involved. Writing down a simple timeline in your own words can help you stay organized and avoid leaving out important details.
- Key dates and times, as best you remember them
- Where the events took place
- Names of people or organizations involved
Documents and records
Depending on the situation, different types of documents may matter. Examples include:
- Medical records and bills
- Police reports or incident reports
- Contracts, emails, or text messages
- Pay stubs or other proof of lost income
You do not need to organize everything perfectly before speaking with a lawyer, but having key records available can help them understand the situation more quickly.
Questions and goals
It can also help to think about what you hope to learn from the conversation. For example:
- Do I have a case that a lawyer might consider?
- How long do cases like this sometimes take?
- What options might be available besides going to court?
Writing down your main questions in advance can make it easier to remember them during the discussion.
Using research to prepare for the meeting
Before reaching out, many people use public information to understand basic legal concepts, common issues, and the kinds of factors lawyers sometimes review. Tools like Caseworth can help you explore public case law and related concepts in an organized way.
This is educational, not advice
Every situation is different, and only a licensed attorney who represents you can give you legal advice. This checklist is meant to help you think about preparation, not to tell you whether you have a case or what you should do.