When you decide on what lawyer you want to work with, you most likely want to know how to prepare for a first

interview.

While in the past it was the phone book, most people these days rely on the Internet to find a good lawyer. The primary consideration, it seems for most people when choosing a lawyer, is that the law office be close to their house.

However, if you want help choosing a lawyer, you can connect with the Law Centre or a Lawyer Referral Service. Some people still look at the phone book, as it’s easier than clicking through to a website from Google Search.

Bring as many facts as you can. Also, collect and bring along as many documents you can, including receipts, letters and journal entries.

Try to assemble a brief, concise, but detailed narrative. Keep to the point.

State your problem, and determine if the lawyer is a good fit. The lawyer should be able to answer any questions you may have, or clearly and quickly indicate what information she or he needs to answer such q question.

Try to determine expertise, a time estimate, and a cost estimate. See if the lawyer charges for phone calls, or has any suggestions on how to add value to the hours that he or she is billing.

Make sure to follow-up with the lawyer to ensure things are progressing, and find out why they may not be.

Dinning Hunter Lambert Jackson are lawyers in Victoria