What is the first thing you do when you meet a potential client?

• A. Prepare a retainer agreement.
• B. Collect payment upfront.
• C. Identify the issues and assess the facts.
• D. Introduce the paralegal's credentials.

Answer: (C)

The first thing to do when meeting a potential client is to gather information to identify the issues and assess the facts. This step is the foundation of any legal representation because it lets you understand what legal questions are really at stake, what evidence exists, and what the strengths and weaknesses of the case might be. By identifying the issues and assessing the facts, you can determine whether you can take the matter, what remedies or relief may be available, and what information or documents you’ll need next. It also helps you spot any conflicts of interest and decide on the appropriate scope of representation.

Preparing a retainer agreement or collecting payment upfront is premature before you’ve clearly identified the issues and confirmed that you will represent the client. Introducing the paralegal’s credentials at the initial meeting is not necessary for addressing the client’s immediate legal needs and can come across as irrelevant to the case at this stage. In a landlord-tenant scenario, starting with a solid fact-finding and issue-identification conversation ensures you understand the tenancy problem, dates, notices, and potential remedies before outlining next steps.