We recognise that first-time meetings with solicitors are frequently filled with uncertainty. We’ll explain what to anticipate and increase your understanding of the topics that are likely to be covered in your initial meeting in this blog.
How do I arrange an appointment?
To arrange an appointment, you can contact us through our online contact form or by calling 0808 169 5822. Our reception will ensure that you are transferred to our friendly and experienced enquiry team, who will set you up with an appointment at a time and in a manner that suits you.
What to expect
In advance of your appointment, you will receive an email from our enquiry team which will confirm the details of your appointment and a link to a welcome video prepared by Billy Smith. This will assist you in preparing for your consultation.
At the appointment our solicitors will listen to your legal problem, identify your goals and priorities, and explain to you how we will assist in achieving those. Our solicitors will provide indications of timescales and costs, as well as giving details on what you can expect from our client service.
If you wish to instruct us to help you, then we will welcome you to the team and give you further details about what you can expect moving forward. If you need some time to think about things, then that is also not a problem. We will arrange a short follow-up conversation once you have had an opportunity to think about things.
Cost
During your appointment, your solicitor will explain the costs involved. Following your initial appointment, you will receive an email containing our Terms of Business.
Client details
We will ask for your name, address, telephone number and other appropriate contact details. It is important that you make sure you provide up to date contact details and keep your solicitor informed of any changes so they can make sure information reaches you on time.
It is also very important to let your solicitor know of any confidential information that you do not want to be disclosed to other parties. This could be your husband/wife for example, if you have moved to an address and you do not want them to know.
Identity checks / complying with Anti-Money Laundering requirements
We are regulated by the Law Society of Scotland. We have got to follow certain kinds of requirements. This includes taking your ID and checking for any conflicts of interest.
Normally we require photographic identification i.e. Driving Licence or Passport (in date) and a bank statement dated within the last 3 months. This is also to ensure we are compliant with Anti-Money Laundering laws and regulation.
Code of Conduct requirements
To start with, we’ll make it the following clear to you:
A. The Costs of the work as far as we are able to.
B. Who will be working for you and others in the team.
C. Making a complaint if you are unhappy with the service
Instructions / questions
It is very important that you tell your solicitor all the facts relating to your case/legal problem. This could be bullet pointed summary format.
If your solicitor has all the relevant information they will be in a good position to give initial advice and direction and to help you as best as they can.
Usually your solicitor will tell you all the ways to solve your problems. This will usually be by way of alternative dispute resolution in the first instance.
You are also welcome to ask your solicitor any questions or seek clarification on any advice that they have given during the appointment. They are here to help!
Can I bring someone with me?
Support from a close friend or relative can be quite helpful. Feel free to bring a support person if you wish.
After the appointment
At the end of your appointment, your solicitor will summarise what has been said and advise you on what will happen next. If we think there is an urgent need for action we will let you know.
Clients sometimes have concerns about the cost of instructing a solicitor and how they will fund their case from start to finish. If this is a matter of concern to you, tell your solicitor.
There are many ways we can help you to reduce costs, whilst ensuring that you get the best possible advice and guidance. This might include assisting you with parts of your case such as preparing applications or witness statements.
So don’t let costs stand in the way of you getting early initial advice. Whatever your concern, we are confident we can help you to understand your options better, or to refer you to organisations that can.
What should I do next?
At Complete Clarity Solicitors, we are passionate about helping clients solve their legal problems and achieve their goals. We are certain that we can help you and would encourage you to get in touch with us today by calling 0808 169 5822, completing our online contact form or by emailing us at sales@claritysimplicity.co.uk
