The short answer
- A free, printable worksheet for a first meeting with a lawyer. Fill it in at the time, or print it and keep it to hand.
- Nothing is sent anywhere. Ticks are kept on this device only, and there's no email or sign-up.
- It isn't legal advice. It's a record for your own use.
First Meeting With a Lawyer
Most initial consultations are free. A little prep helps you use the time well.
They'll likely ask you
Printable resource from theaccidentadvisory.com — general information only. The Accident Advisory is not a law firm and this is not legal advice.
Meeting a lawyer for the first time can feel intimidating, especially soon after an accident. This worksheet walks you through what to bring and what to expect, so you can use the meeting well. Nothing here is collected or sent anywhere — it’s simply a sheet for your own use.
A free consultation is only as useful as the preparation you bring to it.
How to use it
Fill in the “they’ll likely ask you” section beforehand, in your own words, while it’s fresh — it’s much easier to speak clearly in the room if you’ve already put it on paper once. Bring the checklist items you have; missing ones aren’t a dealbreaker; a good attorney can usually help you get them.
Not sure you need a lawyer at all yet? Start with our honest do I need a lawyer guide first — this worksheet is for once you’ve decided to talk to one, or you’re not sure and want to find out with nothing to lose (most initial consultations are free).
When should I use this?
Use it before a first meeting with a lawyer, to bring the right papers and the right questions.
How do I fill it in?
- List the documents you have: police report number, photos, medical records, insurer letters.
- Write a one-page timeline of what happened.
- Add your questions and take notes during the meeting.
Example question: ‘Who will work on my case day to day, and how will you keep me updated?’
Which guides go with it?
Common questions
What should I bring?
Photos, the police report number, insurer letters, medical records and bills, and your notes or journal.
Do I have to hire the lawyer after the first meeting?
No. You can take time to decide, and compare more than one.
Should I discuss fault in the meeting?
Yes, tell them what you know. A lawyer needs the full picture to give advice.
Is this legal advice?
No. It is a worksheet for your own use.
The Accident Advisory provides free, general information and is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. These tools are for your own personal use. Nothing you write is collected, stored, or sent anywhere — they are simply printable resources.