Questions to Ask a Lawyer Before Hiring

A first meeting with a lawyer goes quickly, and many people walk out wishing they had asked something they forgot. Going in with a list of questions helps you compare firms, understand what to expect, and make a confident decision. These are the questions worth bringing to any consultation with an ELA-recognized firm or any other attorney you are considering.

Questions About Experience

How many cases like mine have you handled? You want an attorney who works on your type of matter regularly, not occasionally.

How long have you been practicing in this area of law? Years matter, but focus matters more. A lawyer with a concentrated practice in your area often brings more relevant experience than one with a general practice.

Have you handled cases in the court where mine would be heard? Familiarity with local judges, procedures, and opposing attorneys can be valuable.

Do you go to trial? For injury, criminal, and family cases, ask about trial experience. Even if your case settles, the other side pays attention to whether your lawyer is ready for court.

Questions About Your Case

What are the strengths and weaknesses of my situation? A good lawyer will give you an honest assessment, not just good news.

What are my options? Ask about every reasonable path, including settlement, mediation, plea negotiations, or going to court, depending on the case.

What happens next, and what is the timeline? No attorney can predict every detail, but you should leave with a general sense of the steps ahead and how long they usually take.

Are there any deadlines I should know about? Many legal matters have time limits. Make sure you understand any that apply to you.

What do you need from me? Ask what documents, records, or information will help the attorney move your case forward.

Questions About Fees and Costs

How do you charge for this type of case? Find out whether the fee is contingency, hourly, flat, or a combination.

What is included in the fee, and what costs are separate? Filing fees, expert witnesses, records, and similar expenses are often handled separately from the attorney’s fee.

Is there a retainer, and how does it work? If you pay money up front, ask how it is applied and what happens to any unused portion.

Will you put the fee agreement in writing? The answer should be yes.

Questions About Communication

Who will work on my case day to day? Many firms use a team of attorneys, paralegals, and staff. Ask who you will hear from most often.

How will you keep me updated? Ask how often you can expect to hear from the firm and the best way to reach them.

How quickly do you return calls and emails? A clear answer sets expectations for both sides.

Questions to Ask Yourself Afterward

After the meeting, think about how you felt. Did the attorney listen? Were the answers clear? Did you feel rushed or pressured? Do you trust this person with something important? The answers to those questions are often just as telling as anything said during the consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it okay to bring a list of questions to a consultation?

Yes. Attorneys expect it, and a list helps you use the time well. Write down the answers or bring someone to take notes.

Should I ask a lawyer about the likely outcome?

You can and should ask for an honest assessment. Be cautious of any attorney who promises a specific result, since no lawyer can guarantee how a case will end.

Is what I say during a consultation confidential?

Generally, yes. Lawyers have a duty to keep information shared by prospective clients confidential, even if you do not end up hiring them.

What if I do not understand a lawyer’s answer?

Ask them to explain it another way. A good attorney should be able to describe your situation in plain language.