You want to file a claim for discrimination or harassment against your employer. You found a lawyer and scheduled a consultation. Now what? How do you prepare?
After making an appointment with an Illinois employment lawyer, preparation is key. You may be scared to meet with a legal professional for the first time. However, with the right preparation, you can reduce costs and help your lawyer represent you as best as possible.Â
So how do you prepare? Follow these guidelines below.Â
Gather Information
Do not show up to your consultation empty-handed. Ideally, you should bring all relevant paperwork and documentation to your first meeting. This may include any communication you had with your employer (texts, emails, etc.) as well as information about the incident in question, when you were hired, and if/when you were fired. Paystubs can help determine the amount of damages involved. Also, if there are witnesses who saw the incident take place, bring their contact information with you. If there is an employment contract, bring that as well.Â
Have a List of Questions Ready
Your lawyer will have a lot of questions for you about the incident in question, so return the favor with a list of questions for your lawyer. Get to know them so you can determine if you feel comfortable with them. Ask about their education and prior experience working on similar cases. Do you have a strong case? If so, how long will it take to resolve? Also, ask about costs. How are expenses billed?Â
Be on Time
Be respectful of your lawyer. They are very busy and do not want to wait around for clients, especially if they are offering free consultations. Do not waste the attorney’s time. Arrive a few minutes early and show you are serious about the case.Â
Be Honest
Your lawyer can only do so much based on the information you give them. Therefore, it must be honest and accurate. Keep in mind that everything you tell your lawyer will be kept confidential, so do not be afraid to tell the truth. Because there are legal issues involved, being dishonest can result in serious penalties.
Listen to the Lawyer
After you tell your side of the case, the lawyer will likely have some advice for you. They will tell you how strong they think your case is or inform you of the next steps. They may need more information before they can proceed with your case. Or they simply may not be interested in your case. In any case, listen to what the lawyer has to say. They have your best interests in mind.
Contact a Chicago Employment Lawyer
Meeting with a lawyer for the first time can be a nerve-racking experience. What do you say? What do you do?Â
If you are having employment issues, contact The Law Office of Mitchell A. Kline. We will help you prepare for your first meeting with us so everything goes smoothly. Schedule a free consultation today. Fill out the online form or call (312) 558-1454.
