Good to know: a first conversation doesn't mean the lawyer has agreed to represent you. Booking an appointment also doesn't pause any legal deadline, so mention deadlines as soon as you call.
1Confirm the appointment
Before the meeting, make sure you and the firm are on the same page.
2Prepare a one-page summary
A short written summary helps the lawyer understand your situation quickly.
Two or three sentences on what happened and what you need.
Key events in order, with dates where you know them.
What you most need answered, including unfavourable facts.
Tip: bring copies and keep your original records unaltered.
3Gather documents
Bring what applies to your issue. If you're not sure, ask the firm what they need.
| Issue | Documents to bring |
|---|---|
| Separation or parenting | Existing agreements or orders, related correspondence, financial records if requested. |
| Employment | Employment agreement, termination or severance papers, pay records, correspondence. |
| Criminal matter | Charge or release documents, court dates, correspondence from previous counsel (shared securely). |
| Business or contract dispute | Contracts and amendments, invoices, notices, correspondence, a transaction timeline. |
| Property transaction | Purchase agreement, closing date, lender or property documents. |
| Estate matter | Wills or estate documents you lawfully hold, correspondence, key dates. |
4Questions to ask during the consultation
Pick the ones that matter most to you. You don't need to ask all twelve.
- Do you regularly handle this type of issue?
- Can you take the matter, and who would do the work?
- What is the most urgent step or deadline?
- What options exist, including non-court alternatives?
- What information is missing?
- What does the retainer include and exclude?
- How are fees calculated, and what other costs may arise?
- Is a deposit required, and when is it replenished?
- Would a limited-scope engagement suit my needs?
- How will we communicate, and what response times apply?
- What can you estimate, and what remains uncertain?
- What must happen before you start or take on a deadline?
5Meeting worksheet
Fill this in during or right after the meeting. It's for your own records.
Nothing you type here is sent anywhere. Print the page or download the PDF to keep a copy.
6Before you leave the meeting
Where to start looking
Sources and scope
Sources: Law Society of Ontario directory; Law Society Referral Service. This checklist is general information, not legal advice, and does not create a lawyer–client relationship.