What to Expect in Your First Online Legal Consultation

An online legal consultation is structured exactly like an in-person one, just over chat, audio, or video. The advocate will spend the first few minutes understanding your problem, then explain the legal position, the practical options, and what each will likely cost in time and money. Most first consultations on KanunSetu run 30?60 minutes.

To get the most out of it, prepare three things in advance. First, a one-paragraph summary of what happened and what you want to achieve ? written, not memorised. Second, scans or photos of any documents that matter (contracts, notices, FIRs, agreements, correspondence). Third, a short list of questions you want answered.

On the call, take notes ? or ask if you can record audio. Don't worry if you don't follow every legal term; advocates are used to clients asking 'what does that mean in plain English'. If the advocate suggests next steps, ask explicitly: do they need a follow-up consultation, or are they offering to take on the case for a separate fee?

After the call, you'll have access to the chat history on KanunSetu, which becomes a useful written record of what was discussed. You can also share documents securely through the consultation chat ? they're encrypted at rest and only accessible to you and the advocate on the booking.

If you decide the advocate isn't a fit, that's fine ? book a different one for your next consultation. The first call is meant for assessment, not commitment.

This article is general information, not legal advice.