About the law firms with online booking
A law firm deals with family matters (divorce, custody, maintenance), employment matters (dismissals, sick leave, unpaid wages), civil matters (contracts, tenancies, inheritances, debt claims), criminal cases and immigration, among others. Some firms cover everything and others focus on one or two fields. Each one says so on its page, along with its team and opening hours.
The most common booking is a first consultation, which many firms offer free and without obligation. You set out your matter, the lawyer tells you whether the firm takes it on and what the next steps would be, and then explains their fees. If you are already a client, the usual appointments are a follow-up to go over developments or hand in documents, a contract review before you sign something, or a short visit to sign powers of attorney, engagement letters or other documents.
A first consultation usually lasts half an hour. A one-hour consultation leaves time to read documents with you. A contract review, around 45 minutes depending on its length. A signing, 15 minutes. Each firm sets its durations and you see them before you book.
Before you go, gather the documents that relate to your matter, such as contracts, official notices, burofaxes, police reports, judgments or emails, and write down the key dates and the questions you want to ask. The better prepared you arrive, the more you get out of the consultation. Whatever you say is covered by professional secrecy from the first minute. If you cannot make it, cancel from the link in your email to free up the slot.
Frequently asked questions
Is the first consultation with a lawyer free?
Many firms offer it free and without obligation, and say so on the service when you book. It is for setting out your matter and finding out whether the firm takes it on and what steps it would follow. Fees are explained afterwards, before you decide.
What should I bring to a first consultation at a law firm?
The documents that relate to your matter (contracts, official notices, police reports, burofaxes, judgments, emails) and a note of the important dates. Writing down the questions you want to ask helps you not to forget any.
How long is a consultation with a lawyer?
A first consultation usually takes half an hour. A one-hour consultation leaves time to go through documents. Signing documents, about 15 minutes. Each firm shows the length of each appointment before you book.
Can I choose which lawyer I see?
Yes, if the firm shows its team. For a follow-up it makes sense to book with whoever already knows your matter. For a first consultation you can pick anyone with a free slot.
What is a contract review?
An appointment in which the lawyer reads a contract with you before you sign it (a tenancy, a sale, an employment or services contract) and explains the clauses and what they mean for you. Bring the full text, with any annexes.
Is what I say at the appointment confidential?
Yes. Lawyers are bound by professional secrecy, including at a first consultation and even if you decide not to instruct the firm.