Before you arrive for your first meeting with a real estate lawyer, give some thought to how the meeting will go. It's a business and professional meeting, so approach it with the right frame of mind and presentation. Whether your real estate issue involves business or residential property, you're likely dealing with an asset with significant value, which demands dedicated attention.

Expect both you and the lawyer will be putting your best foot forward. Dress appropriately, be on time and be polite. You should expect the same from the lawyer.

Ease into Your Meeting

Be comfortable during your meeting. The lawyer may not start off the meeting with the legal issues, and may ask for some background information and engage in casual conversation. You should feel at ease as you get acquainted.

Let the lawyer set the tone and course for the meeting. You likely have a good amount of information to share, but the lawyer can help direct what needs to be covered first. Depending on your case, the lawyer may be interested in certain facts or events. The lawyer will appreciate your effort if you've completed any questionnaires in advance, or brought an organized collection of needed documents with you.

What's the Scope of Your Meeting?

The objectives and focus of your initial meeting are to present relevant information, allowing the lawyer to asses your case. Know that the attorney-client privilege applies to the meeting, even if you decide not to hire the lawyer. You should give honest information, whether positive or negative. This avoids surprises later on, and allows all issues to be addressed.

If the lawyer is interested in representing you, he'll help you understand what your options are, and what the outcome of your case might be. Again, be honest with the lawyer. If you're well-prepared for the meeting, the lawyer may have specific advice about your case and what steps you might take next.

At the end of the meeting, you should feel you've made progress with your real estate issue. There may be action in your case right away, with a foreclosure case, for example, where time limits may be important. You may need to accept a contract or make a counter-offer if you're buying or selling property, or negotiating a lease.

Hiring the Lawyer

If you decide to hire the lawyer, and he agrees to represent you, you'll need to take care of a few more initial details before work on your real estate case begins. You should expect the lawyer to give you an attorney engagement or representation contract. This contract covers the terms of the lawyer's services to you, including the fee arrangement. Read the contract before you sign it, and ask questions if there's something your don't understand.

You may be asked to pay a retainer, so be prepared with a check or credit card for payment.

Ask what the next steps are in your case, and follow up as needed. Cooperation with your lawyer is important for the success of your real estate transaction or lawsuit. Know what to expect regarding communication, and keep up-to-date as your case progresses.

Questions for Your Attorney

• Do you anticipate any particular problems with my case?
• Will you handle communications with others involved in my real estate matter, such as lenders, property managers or government agencies?
• What is the timeline for completing work on my real estate transaction?

Related Resources on Lawyers.com^sm

- Contact a Real Estate Law Lawyer in your area for specific legal advice, and read Real Estate: Selecting a Good Lawyer 
- Need a form? Access hundreds of Legal Forms for personal and business needs, including this Home Purchase Worksheet
- Read Home Purchase Agreements, Real Estate: Preparing to Meet with a Lawyer or access more Residential Real Estate articles and information
- Legal Dictionary
- Visit the Legal Forums for discussions on Real Estate Law topics