Questioning Pattern to Pinpoint the Core Legal Issue
This structured questioning approach narrows down the problem efficiently by moving
from general to specific, ensuring the client reveals critical details while feeling
comfortable.
1. Open-Ended Narrative – Let the Client Speak Freely
✔ Start with a broad, open-ended question.
✔ Encourage storytelling without interruption.
🟢 Sample Question:
“Can you walk us through what brought you here today?”
🔹 Follow-Up Prompts (if needed):
“Start from the beginning, as far back as you think is relevant.”
“Take your time—we want to fully understand what happened.”
2. Timeline Clarification – Establish Chronology
✔ Ensure events are in order for clarity.
✔ Look for patterns or inconsistencies.
🟢 Key Questions:
“When did this issue first arise?”
“Was there a specific incident that escalated the situation?”
“Has this been a one-time event, or is it ongoing?”
🔹 Follow-Up:
“What happened immediately after?”
“Have there been any recent developments?”
3. Identifying Key People & Involvement
✔ Pinpoint individuals involved & their roles.
🟢 Key Questions:
“Who else was directly involved in this situation?”
“Did anyone witness these events?”
“Have you spoken to anyone (HR, police, coworkers, etc.) about this?”
🔹 Follow-Up:
“How did they react?”
“Did they take any action or make any statements?”
4. Determining Client’s Actions & Documentation
✔ Understand what the client has already done.
✔ Identify supporting evidence.
🟢 Key Questions:
“Have you taken any steps to address this issue?”
“Do you have any documents, emails, or messages related to this?”
“Have you filed any formal complaints, reports, or legal claims?”
🔹 Follow-Up:
“Did you receive any written responses?”
“Would you be able to share those documents with us?”
5. Assessing Impact – Why This Matters
✔ Gauge emotional, financial, and professional consequences.
🟢 Key Questions:
“How has this situation affected your work, health, or personal life?”
“Are you facing any financial or professional consequences?”
“Has this caused stress, fear, or reputational damage?”
🔹 Follow-Up:
“Has it affected your job security or income?”
“Have you sought any medical or psychological support due to this?”
6. Exploring Prior Legal Exposure & Expectations
✔ Check for prior legal actions or similar experiences.
✔ Clarify what the client hopes to achieve.
🟢 Key Questions:
“Have you faced a similar issue in the past?”
“Have you worked with an attorney on a related matter before?”
“What outcome would you like to see from this process?”
🔹 Follow-Up:
“Are you open to settlement, or do you prefer legal action?”
“What concerns do you have about taking legal steps?”
7. Confirming Urgency & Next Steps
✔ Identify deadlines or immediate risks.
🟢 Key Questions:
“Are there any deadlines we need to be aware of?”
“Do you feel immediate action is necessary?”
“Is there anything you haven’t shared that you think is important?”
🔹 Final Follow-Up:
“Based on our discussion, are you comfortable with the next steps we’ve outlined?”
“Do you have any final questions for us before we move forward?”
