Your First Talk With a Lawyer: A Simple Checklist

 

Meeting a lawyer for the first time can feel intimidating. You might worry about what to say or what papers to bring. This is normal.

This simple checklist is a tool to help you feel prepared and confident. It helps you organize your story so a lawyer can understand how to help you.

Information About the Accident

  • The date, time, and location of the accident.
  • Any photos or videos you took of the accident scene, your injuries, or any property damage (like a car).
  • The police report number, if you have one. (It’s okay if you don’t.)
  • Names and phone numbers of any people who saw what happened.

Information About Your Injuries & Medical Care

  • A list of all the places you received medical help (emergency room, doctor’s office, physical therapy).
  • The names of the doctors who have treated you.
  • Any medical bills or papers the hospital or doctors gave you.
  • Receipts for any medicine or medical supplies you had to buy.

Information About Your Lost Money & Time

  • A list of the days you missed from work because of your injury.
  • Your recent pay stubs to show how much you normally earn.
  • A note from your doctor saying you cannot work.

Most Important: You do not need to have all of these things. A good lawyer in New York can help you get this information.

Just bring what you can. The most important thing you bring is your own story.

 

Related articles

Share on: