01Write a short overview

Describe the situation in a few paragraphs. Explain who is involved, what happened and where the main events took place. Distinguish the country where someone lives from the country where a business, property, agreement or proceeding is located. You do not need to decide which country's law applies before the meeting.

  • List the names and roles of the main people or organisations.
  • Note the countries connected with the matter and explain each connection.

02Decide what you want to understand

Separate your preferred outcome from the questions you need help exploring. For example, you may want to understand an agreement, respond to a letter or compare possible next steps. Prioritise two or three questions so that the conversation has a manageable focus.

  • What would make this meeting useful to you?
  • Which decisions can wait, and which feel urgent?

03Identify dates and gather key records

Prepare a brief sequence of events and select the documents that explain them. Bring any letter, notice or message that states a date for action. Copy the wording accurately rather than interpreting its effect yourself. If a date is uncertain, mark it as approximate.

  • Keep original files and prepare clearly named working copies.
  • Add a short note explaining what each selected document shows.

04Plan the practical details

Confirm the meeting time and time zone, expected duration, preferred language and whether interpretation is needed. Ask how documents should be provided and who will attend. For an online meeting, test the connection and choose a setting where you can discuss personal information without being overheard.

  • Check the consultation fee and what it covers.
  • Ask which records are useful before sending a large collection.

05Leave with a written next-step list

During the discussion, note explanations, unanswered questions and any further information requested. Before the meeting ends, check your understanding of the next steps. Keep your own summary separate from any written advice you receive so that your interpretation is not mistaken for the lawyer's wording.

  • Record who will do each task and the agreed date.
  • Clarify whether any further work has been agreed and how it will be confirmed.

General preparation guidance. This page does not determine legal rights, deadlines or which law applies.