How to Prepare for a Meeting with an Employment Paralegal

Meeting with a paralegal about a workplace issue can feel overwhelming, especially if you’ve never spoken to a legal professional before. You might be unsure about what to bring, how much information to share, or what to expect. The good news is that a paralegal is there to guide you and help you understand your rights and options. You don’t need to have everything figured out ahead of time, but being prepared can help you make the most of your meeting.

This blog offers general information about how to prepare for a consultation with an employment paralegal. It is not legal advice and does not replace a one-on-one conversation with a licensed legal professional.

1. Clarify Why You’re Reaching Out

Before your meeting, it can be helpful to spend a few minutes thinking about the issue you’re facing. You don’t need to know legal terminology—just try to describe the situation in your own words. Think about what happened, when it started, and what outcome you’re hoping for. For example, you may be seeking unpaid wages, experiencing harassment, or trying to understand your rights after being terminated. Having a short summary in mind will help your meeting stay focused and productive.

2. Gather Relevant Documents

One of the best ways to support your case is by bringing documents that relate to your job and the issue you’re facing. Some useful documents may include:

• Your employment contract or offer letter

• Pay stubs or records of payment

• Work schedules or timesheets

• Emails or messages with your employer, especially those related to the problem

• Any warning letters, termination notices, or performance evaluations

• Notes or journal entries you’ve made about incidents at work
  

Don’t worry about having everything perfectly organized. Just bring what you have. If you’re not sure whether something is relevant, bring it anyway—it might be more helpful than you think.

3. Make a Note of Important Dates

Timelines are important in employment matters, especially when it comes to filing claims or meeting legal deadlines. Try to write down some key dates, such as:

• The day you started working

• The date the issue first began

• The date you were terminated, if applicable

• The date you filed any internal complaints or reported the issue to a supervisor

If you’re not sure of the exact dates, an estimate is better than nothing. Your paralegal can help determine what’s relevant.

4. Write Down Any Questions You Have

It’s easy to forget your questions once a meeting begins, especially if you’re feeling anxious or overwhelmed. Writing down your questions ahead of time helps ensure you get the information you need. Common questions might include:

• What are my rights in this situation?

• What steps can I take?

• Are there deadlines I need to be aware of?

• What is the process for filing a complaint or claim?

• What are the potential risks or outcomes?

Don’t be afraid to ask questions. A good legal professional wants you to feel informed and empowered.

5. Be Honest and Open

It’s important to be honest with your paralegal, even if some parts of your story are uncomfortable to share. You are not being judged. The goal is to understand your situation as clearly as possible. If you don’t remember something or aren’t sure about the details, that’s okay—just say so. Your paralegal can work with you to fill in the gaps.

6. Ask About Costs and Next Steps

Some paralegals offer free consultations, while others charge a small fee. It’s completely appropriate to ask about this before or during your meeting. You should also ask about what services are included, what the next steps might look like, and whether you’ll need to sign any documents or agreements.

If you were referred by a community agency or non-profit, be sure to mention this. Many paralegals, including myself, offer reduced rates or flexible payment options to workers referred through these channels.

Final Thoughts

You don’t need to have a perfect file or a complete understanding of the law before speaking with a paralegal. A little preparation can go a long way in helping you feel more confident and making your meeting more effective. Bringing relevant documents, noting key dates, and being ready to share your story honestly are all helpful steps.

This blog is provided for general information purposes only and is not legal advice. If you are experiencing a workplace issue, please contact Vescio Legal Services to speak with a licensed paralegal who can offer advice based on your individual circumstances.