How to prepare for your first consultation with a lawyer
Gather documents and write a timeline
Before the meeting, collect every document related to your matter: contracts, letters and e-mails, decisions received, minutes, certificates, photos, including documents that seem unfavourable to you. A lawyer advises best with the full picture, and professional secrecy (art. 321 of the Criminal Code, art. 13 BGFA/LLCA) protects everything you disclose.
Also prepare a written timeline of events, ideally one page: dates, facts, people involved. No other document saves more time (and therefore fees) in a first meeting.
Questions to ask upfront
Clarify three things at the first consultation: the assessment of your situation (rights, risks, prospects), the proposed strategy (negotiation, litigation, mediation?) and the cost (billing method, retainer requested, estimated total budget).
Also ask about deadlines: under Swiss law many rights lapse or become time-barred: deadlines to challenge a termination, to file suit, to oppose a summary penalty order, and so on. This is often the most urgent information of a first meeting.
After the meeting
A serious lawyer will generally confirm the mandate, its scope and billing terms in writing. Read that document before signing and ask about anything unclear. You remain free not to proceed, or to consult another lawyer for a second opinion.
Frequently asked questions
Is the first consultation free?
It depends on the firm: some offer a brief first meeting, others bill it at their hourly rate or an announced flat fee. Ask explicitly when booking the appointment. A serious firm will answer clearly.
What should I bring to the first meeting?
All documents related to the matter (contracts, correspondence, decisions, evidence), an identity document and, if possible, a written timeline of events. Bring unfavourable documents too: the lawyer needs the full picture to advise you properly.
Is what I tell a lawyer confidential?
Yes. A lawyer's professional secrecy is protected by art. 321 of the Criminal Code and art. 13 of the Federal Act on the Free Movement of Lawyers. It covers everything you disclose in the course of the lawyer's professional activity, even if you end up not instructing them.
Can I change lawyers during proceedings?
Yes, at any time. You will owe fees for work already done; the new lawyer takes over the file and the previous one must hand over the case documents.