How to Prepare for Your First Meeting with a Personal Injury Lawyer

Meeting with a personal injury lawyer for the first time can feel overwhelming—especially when you’re still dealing with the physical, emotional, and financial stress of an accident. But preparing properly can help you make the most out of your consultation and give your attorney the information they need to evaluate your case. At Stockwell Law, led by Marissa Stockwell, every client receives personal attention and honest guidance from start to finish. Here’s how to get ready for your first meeting.

1. Gather All Relevant Documents

Before your appointment, collect any paperwork connected to your accident. This may include:

• Police or incident reports

• Medical records and hospital bills

• Photos or videos from the scene

• Insurance correspondence

• Pay stubs or documentation of lost wages

Having these documents ready helps your attorney see the full picture—what happened, what’s been lost, and what your recovery might look like.

2. Write Down What You Remember

Accidents can blur together quickly, especially when emotions run high. Take a few minutes to write down everything you can recall, including:

• The date, time, and location of the accident

• Weather or road conditions (if applicable)

• Any witnesses or people involved

• How the incident has affected your daily life

Even small details can make a big difference later when building your case.

3. Be Honest About Your Situation

Honesty is key when working with an attorney. Marissa Stockwell’s approach is built on trust—she wants to help you, not judge you. Be upfront about your injuries, prior medical conditions, and any conversations you’ve already had with insurance companies. Complete transparency allows her to create the strongest possible strategy for your case.

4. Prepare Questions Ahead of Time

Your first meeting is also your chance to understand how your attorney operates. Bring a list of questions to ensure you leave the consultation informed and confident. You might ask:

• What steps should I take right now to protect my claim?

• What challenges do you foresee in my case?

• How does your fee structure work?

• What kind of timeline can I expect?

5. Don’t Worry About Legal Knowledge

You don’t need to know anything about the law when you walk in the door. That’s what your attorney is for. Stockwell Law is committed to explaining every step in plain English so you always understand what’s happening with your case. The goal is to make the process less stressful, not more.

6. Bring a Support Person if You Need To

If you’re nervous or still recovering, it’s completely fine to bring a trusted friend or family member. They can help you remember details or take notes during the meeting, ensuring you don’t miss anything important.

Preparing for your first meeting isn’t about impressing your attorney—it’s about giving them the tools to fight for you. At Stockwell Law in Fort Lauderdale, you’ll work directly with Marissa Stockwell, not a team of associates. She takes the time to understand your story, your injuries, and your goals, so she can deliver the justice and compensation you deserve.

If you’ve been injured in an accident, call Stockwell Law today for a free consultation and get the dedicated representation you need to move forward.