Initial Consultation Checklist

A well-prepared first call saves time, clarifies goals, and helps us give you precise guidance from day one. Use this checklist to get organized in 20–30 minutes.

Client at a tidy desk with a checklist clipboard, folder of documents, and a phone on speaker
Arrive with a concise summary, key documents, and a short list of questions.

What we’ll cover in the first call

The initial consultation focuses on (1) the facts; (2) your objectives; (3) timing and risk; and (4) what next steps look like. We don’t need a novel—clear bullet points beat long narratives. Bring the essentials below and we’ll do the heavy lifting.

Your 20-minute prep checklist

  1. Two-minute summary of the situation. Who, what, when, where, and why it matters. If there’s a deadline (court date, contract expiry, statutory notice), flag it up front.
  2. Timeline with 5–10 entries. Dates, brief descriptions, and who was involved. Screenshots or calendar entries help.
  3. Key documents. Contracts, letters, emails, policies, screenshots, photos, invoices, pay stubs—anything that proves the facts. PDFs are best; avoid printing if you can.
  4. Parties and contact info. Names, roles, emails/phones, and any representatives (HR, opposing counsel, adjusters).
  5. Evidence list. Where files live (email, shared drive, phone). Note what you don’t have and who might.
  6. Your goals. Plain language is perfect: “Fix this access barrier,” “Recover unpaid wages,” “Negotiate release,” “Stop the conduct,” “Learn my options.”
  7. Questions for the attorney. See a starter list below; pick three that matter most.
  8. Logistics. Preferred contact method, best times to reach you, and any accessibility needs for meetings or documents.

Documents: what to send (and how)

  • Primary items: the contract or policy at issue, demand/notice letters, emails or messages showing key statements, and any recordings or photos.
  • Support items: receipts, statements, screenshots, audit logs, website captures, or transcripts.
  • Format tips: PDF for scans; name files clearly (e.g., 2025-07-21_NationalGrid_Bill.pdf); avoid photos of screens when possible.
  • Chain of custody: don’t annotate originals; keep the native file if you have it (EML, MSG, DOCX, etc.).

Questions you might ask

  • Based on what you’ve heard, what are my primary options?
  • What facts or documents will most affect the outcome?
  • What’s a realistic timeframe and the critical deadlines?
  • How do fees and costs work? What can I do to keep costs down?
  • What are the main risks, and how can we mitigate them?

How to make the most of the call

  • Lead with the timeline. Then we’ll drill down where needed.
  • Separate facts from feelings. Your experience matters, but the decision-makers will rely on evidence and dates.
  • Be candid about weak spots. Surprises cost time; transparency lets us plan.
  • Take notes. Capture action items and follow-ups while we’re on the line.

After the consultation

We’ll outline next steps, who does what, and what we need from you (documents, declarations, contacts). If we move forward together, we’ll confirm representation terms and communication preferences.

How The Brensilber Law Firm supports you

We translate complex facts into clear, persuasive narratives anchored by evidence. If you have accessibility needs for meetings or documents, tell us—our team will accommodate them as a matter of course.

This guide is general information, not legal advice. Reading it does not create an attorney-client relationship.