Can I bring anyone with me to my consultation?

It is common for someone to ask to bring a spouse, friend, or family member to their consultation.  When you meet with an attorney alone, that conversation is privileged, which means that no one can compel either the attorney or the client to disclose what was discussed, with very limited exceptions.  When a third party is in the room, that privilege goes away. Because I want to protect your rights at the outset, it is my personal preference that you and I meet alone. However, I certainly understand if you would like to have a person to provide you moral support or to serve as another pair of ears or even take notes during the consultation.  You do need to be aware that the conversation will no longer be privileged and understand the potential implications of waiving the privilege by having another person present. You also need to make sure you can discuss your situation openly and honestly in front of the person you bring with you. If you choose to bring someone with you to your appointment, I will first meet with you individually and then give you the option of having the other person join us after we have discussed the implications of having a third party present.  Children should not attend your consultation.