What is the purpose of a Client Intake Interview?

• A. The initial meeting with a prospective client to gather facts, define the legal issue, perform a conflicts check, and discuss the fee structure.
• B. A closing argument in a trial.
• C. A post-trial settlement conference.
• D. A sign-off on case acceptance.

Answer: (A)

The purpose of a client intake interview is to gather essential information to determine whether the firm will take the case, including collecting facts, clarifying the legal issue, performing a conflicts check, and discussing the fee structure. This initial meeting helps the attorney assess representability, set expectations about services and billing, and establish the basis for a potential engagement while protecting confidentiality. It is not about trial procedures like closing arguments or post-trial settlements, nor simply a sign-off on case acceptance that happens later after the intake.