What to Expect at Your First Meeting with a Lawyer in Trinidad and Tobago

Meeting a lawyer for the first time can feel daunting, especially if you are facing a legal issue or problem that has already caused you stress and anxiety. In Trinidad and Tobago, the initial consultation is an important step in understanding your rights, clarifying your options and deciding upon your choice of attorney and how best to move forward. While it may not resolve everything immediately, it is the best first step to dealing with your matter in a structured and informed way.  It is important to understand what a consultation entails so you have realistic expectations and can make the most out of the meeting with your lawyer.

The Consultation: Fee or Free?

Most lawyers charge a consultation fee although there are many who do not. Lawyers offer their time in addition to advice. The fee is usually less than the lawyer’s going rate and designed to establish a professional relationship with a client who is serious about dealing with their issue. Time spent meeting prospective clients has to be balanced against time required for court appearances and attending to the needs of existing clientele. A lawyer’s time, like your own, is a scarce resource. Always enquire whether there is a consultation fee when booking your meeting, do not assume.

The First Meeting: A Starting Point, Not Always the End 

Your first visit with a lawyer may or may not bring your issues to a close. In many cases, legal matters require ongoing steps—whether filing documents, negotiating with another party, or preparing for court. Think of this meeting as the beginning of a process rather than a one‑time solution. Even if your matter is straightforward, the lawyer will need to assess the facts before advising on the best course of action.  The solution may not be readily available and a follow up meeting may be required.

Ask Questions Freely 

Clients sometimes hesitate to ask questions, but the first consultation is the perfect time to do so. You should feel comfortable asking about: 

- The lawyer’s assessment of your situation. 

- Possible outcomes and risks. 

- Costs and timelines. 

- What documents or evidence you should prepare. 

Lawyers expect questions—it shows you are engaged and serious about resolving your matter. It also helps both parties develop a rapport. The meeting should feel conversational.

It is also important to provide the lawyer with all the facts. Clients often hold back details which turn out to have important legal consequences. The best advice starts with all the facts and its important that you provide your attorney with full and frank details and be honest about what you know and what you don’t.

Keep Realistic Expectations 

Expect the meeting to be a starting point and not an end. Follow up meeting will be possible, the cost estimates of moving forward will need to be provided as well as the evidence or documents required. The first meeting sets the foundation for the resolution of the issue. It is important to understand that lawyers cannot guarantee results. They can advise on the strengths and weaknesses of your case, but outcomes depend on the law, the facts, and sometimes the court’s discretion. Having realistic expectations will help you avoid disappointment and focus on practical next steps. 

Enquire About the Next Step 

At the end of your meeting, ask clearly: “What happens next?”. This is crucial because many lawyers in Trinidad and Tobago do not actively solicit new clients outside of their existing caseload. Professional restrictions and ethical rules limit how lawyers can advertise or solicit work. As a result, the responsibility often falls on you, the prospective client, to follow up and indicate that you would like to move forward with your matter. Do not expect a lawyer to constantly contact you asking you whether you wish to move forward.

Lawyers know that they are operating in a competitive environment and expect that you will be seeking different opinions. Don’t be shy about it. By asking about the next step, you will know whether you need to: 

• Provide additional documents. 

• Wait for the lawyer to draft or file something. 

• Schedule another meeting. 

• Seek alternative options if the lawyer cannot take on your case or you wish for a second opinion. 

Final Thoughts 

Your first meeting with a lawyer in Trinidad and Tobago is not just about legal advice—it is about building clarity and confidence in how to move forward. Even if the visit does not end your issues, it is a vital first step in resolving them. Go prepared, ask questions, keep your expectations grounded, and always enquire about the next step. Doing so ensures you leave the meeting with a clear sense of direction and a stronger grasp of your legal position.