How to Prepare for Your First Meeting with a Domestic Violence Lawyer in Vancouver

Facing a domestic violence situation can be overwhelming and frightening. If you're in Vancouver and considering seeking legal help, your first meeting with a domestic violence lawyer is a crucial step.

Meeting with a domestic violence lawyer can feel daunting, but taking a few proactive steps can help you maximize this crucial consultation. Whether you’re seeking a protection order, divorce, or custody support, being prepared ensures your lawyer understands your situation and can advise you effectively.

Collect any records that document the abuse or your circumstances:

• Police Reports: Copies of incident reports or file reference numbers
• Photos/Videos: Evidence of injuries, damaged property, or threatening communications
• Medical Records: Hospital or clinic notes related to abuse injuries
• Communications: Emails, texts, voicemails, social media messages
• Witness Information: Names and contact details of anyone who saw or heard the abuse
• Existing Orders: Copies of any restraining or protection orders
• Family Law Documents: Divorce, custody, or support filings that may intersect with your case

Prepare a chronological outline to keep the meeting focused:

• Dates & Times: As precise as you can recall
• Locations: Exact addresses or general areas
• Incident Details: Clear, factual descriptions of each event
• Impact Statement: Emotional, physical, and financial effects on you and any children

Clarify the outcomes you seek and areas where you need clarity:

• Goals: Protection orders, separation, custody arrangements, support
• Questions:
  • What legal options do I have?
  • How do I obtain a protection order in BC?
  • What steps ensure my and my children’s safety?
  • What timeline should I expect for court processes?
  • How are your fees structured, and what payment plans exist?
  • What is your experience handling similar cases in Vancouver?

Your lawyer needs full context to advise you:

• Relationship History: Duration, living arrangements, key events
• Abuser’s Profile: Employment, criminal history, previous court actions
• Support Network: Current housing, financial resources, friends/family involved

Discussing abuse can be triggering. Plan ahead:

• Support Person: Bring a trusted friend or advocate (note confidentiality limits)
• Self-Care: Schedule a debriefing call or therapy session after the meeting
• Comfort: Choose a safe, quiet location for an in-person or virtual consult

• Privileged Communication: Attorney-client discussions are private by law (except in limited cases)
• No Obligation: You’re not required to retain the lawyer after the consultation
• Informed Decision: Use this meeting to assess competence, comfort, and trust

• Arrival: Plan to be on time; virtual meetings should be in a private space with a secure internet connection
• Document Copies: Have physical or digital folders organized for quick reference
• Note-taking: Bring a notebook and pen to jot down advice and next steps