In these notes, I touch on consultations with clients and in particular, the first/initial consult.
I specifically focus on consult preparation, the way they are to be conducted, and everything else in between.
Take note that nothing in this booklet constitutes legal advice or advice of any kind.
Readers must consult official and alternative sources before making any decisions based
on the information provided herein. Templates and examples provided by us are merely a
guideline and nothing more. We will not accept any liability whatsoever.
Take note further that this booklet is intended for personal use only and that the
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1. Introduction
In these notes, I will be touching on consultations with clients and in particular,
the first/initial consult.
I will specifically focus on consult preparation, the way they are to be conducted,
and everything else in between.
Please be reminded that a lot of the content herein is from personal experience
and/or preference, so if you do things slightly different, don’t stress.
2. Preparing for a consultation
Initial consultations usually arise after receiving a phone call or email from a
prospective client requesting your services.
Before arranging a consult, I suggest that you attend to the following:
• Ask the client to explain the nature of the matter in very brief terms.
o This will assist you in preparing adequately for the consult.
Depending on the nature of the matter, you may need to do some
prep or memory refreshing beforehand. It is completely pointless to
inform a client in a consult that you will need to do the necessary
research before you can advise them. This is unprofessional and
comes across as though you have no clue what you are talking
about.
o It is also necessary to have the prospective client briefly explain the
matter in case your firm does not practice in the field to which the
particular matter relates. If you do not do criminal law, do not
arrange a consult without making sure that the matter is not
criminal in nature.
• Inform the prospective client of your consult fee.
o You need to make sure that the client knows how much the consult
will cost before arranging same.
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