For clients
How to prepare for your first meeting with a litigation advocate
A first meeting with an advocate is more useful when you arrive prepared. A little preparation helps the advocate give you a clearer view of your options in the first conversation. These notes come from practice and apply to most disputes.
1. Write a short timeline
List what happened in date order, in plain sentences. Note the dates of agreements, payments, notices, complaints and any court or authority orders. Dates often decide limitation, forum and strategy, so accuracy matters more than style.
2. Gather the documents
Bring originals or clear copies of:
- Agreements, letters, emails and messages relating to the dispute
- Payment records and bank statements
- Notices sent or received, and replies
- Any FIR, complaint, summons or order already issued
- Identity and address proof of the parties, where relevant
Do not edit or reorder messages and documents. Bring them as they are.
3. List the people involved
Note the names, roles and contact details of everyone connected with the matter, including anyone who may be a witness. If a company is involved, bring its name, registration details and the names of directors.
4. Decide what you want
Think about the outcome you are seeking. It might be money recovered, a property handed over, a notice withdrawn, a case dropped or simply clarity. Outcomes shape strategy. An advocate can tell you whether your goal is realistic.
5. Mention deadlines early
Tell the advocate about any hearing date, notice period or deadline already running. Appeal periods and response times can be short.
6. Questions worth asking
- What are my realistic options and what does each involve?
- What is the likely timeline and what steps does each stage involve?
- What are the main risks and weaknesses in my position?
- How will fees be charged and what costs, such as court fees, should I expect?
- What do you need from me, and how will we keep in touch?
7. Be candid
Tell the advocate the facts that are unfavourable to you as well as the favourable ones. A weakness the advocate knows about can be planned for. One that surfaces in court can be damaging.
A note on confidentiality
Discussions with an advocate you engage are protected by professional confidentiality. Until a relationship begins, avoid sending sensitive documents by message or email.
If you would like to contact my office, details are on the contact page.
This article is for general information only. It is not legal advice, and the law and its interpretation change. Please consult an advocate about your specific facts before acting.