Seeking lawyers advice on making first contact
Seeking advice from lawyers about how to approach first contact with a private solicitor (FVIO matter)
I’m preparing to reach out to a private lawyer about an FVIO case. I have cognitive and communication disabilities (ADHD, suspected autism, anxiety, and processing issues).
Under pressure I struggle to speak in a straight line, think quickly, or stay organised verbally, but I communicate very well in writing and can provide detailed documents, transcripts, timelines, and evidence summaries. Or if I did it in person, I’d definitely need more than the typical half hour free chat.
I’m very detailed because I feel every detail matters. And we’re halfway through the process of a contest, and on top of my anxiety of him not having a good impression of me, there’s been some issues in court and I want to try apply for either a) Application for Summary Dismissal b) Application for Early Evidence Review c) Application for Directions on Evidentiary Sufficiency
My concern is:
How do I make a good first impression and communicate my needs without seeming “too hard” or like a client a lawyer wouldn’t want to take on?
I plan to prepare a written briefing pack so the lawyer can review everything before meeting me, if that’s something they’d even want or can do, and I’d prefer written questions instead of verbal ones.
For lawyers who work with clients who have disabilities or communication differences:
• What’s the best way to explain my needs?
• Is it acceptable to request written communication and extra processing time?
• Do lawyers generally mind doing a file review before the first meeting?
• Is it normal to ask for a longer consult instead of a short one?
I am completely out of my element and don’t know what’s normal or acceptable, or not, but I really want this specific lawyer and don’t want to fuck it up. I’d appreciate any guidance on how to handle this so I’m not misunderstood or dismissed.
Thank you.
Posted Aug 1, 2026, 3:59 AM UTC