Pre-Instruction Checklist

Before you formally instruct a lawyer or sign any terms, work through this checklist. It helps you avoid surprises and spot early warning signs.

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1. Before you contact the firm

You have looked at the firm’s website and checked they really do the type of work you need.
You know who regulates them (for example, SRA) and have confirmed this on the regulator’s website if possible.
You have looked at at least one independent source of reviews or feedback (if available).
You have details for at least one other firm so you can compare, not just pick the first name.

2. First contact / enquiry stage

The firm responded to your initial enquiry within a reasonable time.
You know the name and role of the person you are dealing with (partner, solicitor, trainee, caseworker, etc.).
They explained their experience with similar cases in clear, plain language.
You felt able to ask questions and they answered without being defensive or dismissive.

3. Scope, costs and communication

You have a clear explanation of what they will do, and what they will not do.
You understand how you will be charged (hourly rate, fixed fee, success fee, other) in plain English.
They have agreed to give you a written cost estimate or quote before you commit.
You have agreed roughly how often you will be updated and whether key advice will be confirmed in writing.
They have explained the main risks and timescales in your case in a way you can repeat back.

4. Engagement letter and terms

You have received a draft engagement letter / client care letter and terms of business.
The documents clearly explain how to complain and mention the Legal Ombudsman (or equivalent) and time limits.
The costs and charging arrangements in the documents match what you were told verbally.
You have asked about anything you did not understand and received clear answers.
You do not feel under unfair pressure to sign quickly (for example “today only” or “sign now or we drop you”).

5. Red flags before you sign

They have ignored or avoided reasonable questions about costs, experience or regulation.
They refuse to give even a rough written cost estimate or range, saying only “it depends”.
You have experienced rude, dismissive or bullying behaviour at this early stage.
There may be a conflict of interest (for example, they are close to the other party or referrer) which has not been explained properly.
Your “gut feeling” is that something is not quite right, even if you cannot fully explain why.

If you tick several red flags, you may wish to pause and speak to another firm before signing anything.

6. Your notes

You can paste these notes into your main project spreadsheet or Risk & Issue Log if you go ahead.

7. Summary and next steps

You can paste this summary into ChatGPT and ask: “Please help me interpret this pre-instruction checklist and suggest whether I should proceed with this firm or speak to others first, without changing any facts.”