What to Expect When You Talk to a Lawyer About Abuse
A plain-language guide for survivors thinking about reaching out. Print this page or save it for later.
What the first conversation is like
The first call or video conversation with Frank is not an interrogation. Frank will introduce himself, explain how the conversation works, and then listen. You share what you are comfortable sharing — nothing more. There is no pressure to tell the full story, and no obligation to move forward after the call.
You can bring a support person
You are welcome to have a trusted friend, family member, or support person with you during the first conversation. Let Frank know at the start of the call and they can be included. Your comfort matters.
You control what you share
You decide what to tell Frank and when. You can share as much or as little as you want in the first conversation. You can stop at any time. Nothing you share obligates you to move forward, and Frank will not pressure you.
Confidentiality
What you share with Frank in a consultation is confidential. Frank cannot share it without your permission. This confidentiality applies from the very first conversation — you do not need to formally hire Frank for the conversation to be protected.
It's okay if you don't remember everything
Memory is imperfect, especially when it comes to difficult experiences. You do not need a complete or perfectly ordered account of what happened. Frank is not looking for a flawless story — he is listening to understand your experience.
Abuse that happened long ago may still be worth discussing
Many survivors wait years — sometimes decades — before reaching out. Whether it makes sense to pursue a legal claim depends on many factors specific to your situation. What happened long ago may still be worth a conversation. Frank will give you an honest assessment.
Questions to ask any lawyer
When you speak with any lawyer about what happened to you, consider asking: How many cases like mine have you handled? How will you communicate with me, and how often? What are my options, and what are the risks of each? What does it cost, and when? Will I have to go to court? How will you protect my privacy? You are interviewing the lawyer as much as they are learning about your situation.
This guide is for informational purposes only. It is not legal advice and does not create an attorney-client relationship.
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