General preparation information. A professional relationship begins only under the terms agreed with the lawyer or firm.
Lawyer comparison should focus on relevant experience, jurisdiction, scope, communication, staffing, conflicts, fees, and a clear engagement process—not unsupported rankings.
Build the meeting agenda
Bring evidence, not just recollections
- written scope, fee proposal, attorney identity, license status, and contact process
Scope, cost, and next steps
- Who is responsible for the matter and what work is outside scope?
Risks to pause on
- Directory position, advertising, or a generic badge is not proof of fit, competence, availability, or outcome.