M1 - Learner Manual

An essential skill of a legal practitioner is being are able to identify the nature of the client’s problem, and what area of law it falls into e.g. civil, family, or criminal. A practitioner should have an approximate idea following the initial interview with the client. After the client has provided the practitioner with all of the relevant information, the practitioner will explain the next steps in the process before the conclusion of the interview. This is dependent on what area of law their matter will come under. 

Further steps taken by the practitioner may range from informing the client that the practitioner will discuss their matter with an instructing solicitor, or other relevant personnel. The practitioner may, if appropriate, also remind the client that their next court appearance is on a specified date. The practitioner may request the client to return with more information or specific documentation. Finally, the practitioner will provide the client with their business card and letting them know that they will contact them within 7 days, or for the client to call if they have any questions or have any information to add. 

More on debriefing the client after an interview

Debriefing a client after interview is essentially explaining ‘where to from here?’ After the client has provided the interviewer with all of the relevant information to take preliminary instructions with, the interviewer will explain the next steps in the process before the conclusion of the interview. In a criminal context, this may be ensuring that a client is aware of their current bail conditions, or what would happen if they breached bail. The practitioner may explain what is likely to happen at the next court date and the approximate time frames for proceedings.

Additionally, the interviewer will inform the client what steps they will take on behalf of the client. Such as, they may discuss their matter with an instructing solicitor, or other relevant personnel. If relevant, they may organise rehabilitation services or liaise with a psychologist. Moreover, the practitioner will indicate anything the client needs to do for them, such as complete an application form, send through relevant documents, contact any particular services, or to come into the office for a further appointment at a given time.