What happens during an initial consultation with an attorney?

An initial consultation is an opportunity for the attorney and prospective client to identify the legal problem, discuss the relevant facts and procedural posture, and determine whether the attorney can and should become involved.

The lawyer may ask about existing court orders, upcoming hearings, deadlines, prior agreements, the parties and children involved, and the client’s goals. Bringing important documents—such as petitions, orders, judgments, notices of hearing, and recent correspondence—can make the consultation more productive.

The attorney may explain possible legal options, identify information that is still needed, discuss likely next steps, and describe the proposed scope and cost of representation. An initial consultation is not necessarily a promise that the lawyer will accept the case or that the client must hire the lawyer.

Before representation begins, the parties should understand the scope of the engagement and the fee arrangement. In many matters, those terms are documented in a written engagement agreement.

Primary Wisconsin authorities: Wisconsin Rules of Professional Conduct governing prospective clients, scope of representation, fees, confidentiality, and conflicts.