Meeting with a lawyer can feel intimidating – and potentially expensive. Being organized and prepared will help you get the most out of your unpaid prevailing wage consultation with an employment attorney. Follow these steps to maximize your meeting’s productivity and efficiency:

1. Gather Relevant Documents

Pull together any documents related to your wages and the project you worked on. This includes pay stubs, time sheets, employment contracts, company policies, employee handbooks, and any correspondence about pay (including texts). If you no longer have access to documents, make a list of what’s missing to the best of your ability. Thorough documentation helps attorneys understand your situation and can help to prove your case.

2. Compile a Timeline 

Make a timeline of your employment, hours worked, what you were paid, when paychecks were received, etc. A clear timeline helps the attorney piece together the full story. Include dates, descriptions of key events, and notes on any verbal discussions.

3. List Witnesses

Write down names and contact information for any coworkers, supervisors, or others who may be able to attest to or corroborate your experiences. Witness statements can strengthen your case.

6. Detail Damages

Beyond being paid incorrect wages for your work, make note of any additional damages you experienced due to not being paid properly, like wage deductions, unpaid tips, unpaid travel time or time spent at the yard each morning/afternoon, missed breaks, unpaid bonuses, commissions, etc. Quantifying your various types of damages helps determine the scope of your case.

7. Organize Records 

Place photocopies of all relevant records and documents in a folder or binder organized chronologically. This includes pay stubs, policies, contracts, timelines, calculations, names of witnesses, etc. Being organized saves time during your consultation so the attorney can easily reference materials.

8. Prepare Questions

Make a list of questions you have such as: Is my case strong enough to pursue? How will legal fees work? How long does the process take? How can you prepare for your next meeting to maximize efficiency and productivity? What are other next steps? Asking thoughtful questions leads to a productive meeting.

9. Take Notes

Come prepared with a notepad, laptop, or whatever you need to take thorough notes. Documenting the attorney’s answers and advice ensures you don’t forget important details.

10. Understand the Consultation Format

The initial discussion may involve just a quick overview before the attorney requests a formal engagement and fee agreement. Be ready to explain your situation concisely first, then dive into specifics once requested.

11. Be Honest

Do not exaggerate or embellish facts. Stick to the truth so the attorney can properly assess your case. Even unfavorable facts are important to share. Being transparent will lead to the best guidance. 

12. Stay Organized After the Meeting

Request a case overview, timeline, and next steps in writing from the attorney. Save this along with your notes and any new documents into your prevailing wage case file for continued organization.

Being proactive about preparing for your initial prevailing wage attorney meeting sets you up for success. Pulling together documentation, mapping out timelines, calculating unpaid wages, and getting organized all show that you are serious and these actions make the best use of the lawyer’s time and expertise. With a productive first consultation, you will be well on your way to getting the wages you are rightfully owed.