If you’ve just been served with a lawsuit, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed, confused, or even angry. But when you walk into your attorney’s office for that first meeting, it’s not a therapy session — it’s a strategic consultation. The goal is not just to feel better, but to get better prepared. At our firm, we approach every case with honesty, clarity, and a plan. Here’s what you should expect your attorney to tell you — and why it matters.
1. The Worst-Case Scenario: Why We Start with Reality
It might seem harsh, but one of the first things a good attorney will do is walk you through the worst possible outcome of your case. Whether it’s a judgment against you, a financial penalty, or reputational damage, it’s important to know what’s truly at stake. Why? Because understanding the downside helps you make informed decisions from the start and helps us build a strategy to avoid that outcome.
2. The Challenges Ahead: No Sugarcoating
Litigation is rarely simple. Your attorney should outline the major hurdles ahead, including legal defenses that may be weak, evidence that may be contested, and procedural risks like missed deadlines or unfavorable jurisdictions. This isn’t negativity, it’s preparation. A well-informed client is an empowered one. You deserve to understand where the landmines are before you start walking the field.
3. What This Will Cost You: Time, Money, and Emotional Energy
Lawsuits are a financial investment. Your attorney should be upfront about:
- Their fee structure (hourly, flat fee, or contingency)
- Additional costs (expert witnesses, court filing fees, discovery expenses)
- What you might be required to pay if you lose (damages, attorney’s fees, court costs)
There are no guarantees in litigation, so understanding the financial risks early on helps you plan and avoid surprises down the road.
4. What Happens Next: The Legal Process in Plain English
Your lawyer should explain the legal roadmap: what the next steps are, how long the process might take, and what your role will be along the way. You should walk away understanding key phases such as:
- Filing or responding to a complaint
- Discovery (exchanging information and documents)
- Motions and court hearings
- Trial (if it comes to that)
- Settlement possibilities
This is your lawsuit — you deserve to know how it works.
5. Your Defense Strategy: The Attorney’s Game Plan
Finally, your attorney should explain how they plan to defend you. What legal arguments will they use? What facts will they try to highlight or challenge? Will they aim to settle early or take the case to trial? You should hear not just what they plan to do, but why. This is where expertise and judgment come into play and where the value of a seasoned litigator really shows.
Final Thought: This Is a Business Consultation, Not a Therapy Session
While we understand that being sued is stressful and personal, your attorney’s role is to help you solve the problem, not just soothe the discomfort. That means we ask tough questions, push for uncomfortable truths, and focus on strategy over sympathy. It’s not cold; it’s professional. And it’s the approach that gives you the best shot at a favorable outcome.
At our firm, we treat your legal issue as our mission. We’ll give you the facts, prepare you for the process, and fight for the best result; no illusions, no shortcuts. If you’re ready to face the issue head-on with clarity and confidence, we’re here to help you every step of the way.
Contact us today to schedule a confidential consultation. The sooner we understand your case, the sooner we can start building your defense.
