How to prepare for your first meeting with a family law barrister

Introduction

Your first meeting with a barrister is important; it sets the tone, builds trust and clarifies your case. If you’re using direct access, coming prepared ensures that time is used efficiently and that your barrister gets what they need to advise you well. In this post, we outline exactly how you should prepare.

Before the meeting: preparation steps

1. Gather your documents
   Some key documents to bring or have ready:

• Court papers (e.g. C100, applications, orders)

• Financial disclosure forms (Form E, proposals, valuations)

• Communication records (emails, messages, letters)

• Chronology of events

• Any expert reports or correspondence relevant to your case

2. Write a summary of your case
   A clear, concise source document; facts, timeline, key disputes. This helps your barrister quickly get to grips.

3. List your objectives and questions
   What do you want to achieve (contact with children, financial settlement, protection)? Also, prepare questions: about cost, risks, likely outcomes, next steps.

4. Be honest and full with facts
   It’s crucial your barrister knows all relevant facts (even unfavourable ones), withholding information can harm your case.

5. Know deadlines and hearing dates
   Having a clear timeline or court dates helps structure your advice.

During the meeting: What to expect and what to ask

• Your barrister will listen to your summary and key issues

• They may ask clarifying questions or probe potential weak points

• They’ll outline possible strategies, risks and costs

• They’ll explain whether Direct Access is suitable in your case

• You should ask:

• What’s included in their fee? What’s out of scope?

• What are the potential risks or challenges in my case?

• What documents should I prioritise collecting?

• What is the likely timeline?

• Who will handle administrative tasks?

After the meeting: Next steps

• Review the Direct Access Agreement (if applicable)

• Provide any outstanding documents promptly

• Agree on payment terms

• Set up a follow-up conference to strategise in more depth

• Start your case timetable: directions, deadlines, next hearing

Tips to get the most value

• Be concise; focus on key issues

• Answer questions directly

• Share everything; even things you worry may be unfavourable

• Take notes or record (if permitted) so that you don’t forget

• Ask for clarifications if you don’t understand legal terms

Next steps

Your first meeting is a partnership; the more prepared you are, the more your barrister can help you, reach out today via our Direct Access Application Form to begin your process.