First interview

Initial instructions and conflict of interest checks

Prior to meeting the client or taking instructions, sufficient information should be taken over the telephone or by email to enable a conflict of interest check to be carried out in compliance with the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) SRA Standards and Regulations. The check should be against the client, the other party and any relevant third parties. The full names of each person and any other name(s) by which they have been known should be obtained.

It may be helpful for the client to provide in advance of the first meeting a written statement of the parties’ relationship, with details of their financial circumstances where appropriate, perhaps using a questionnaire sent by email. Clients should be asked to bring any relevant documentation, such as:

1. •

   the marriage or registration certificate if civil partners

2. •

   any pre- or post-nuptial agreement

3. •

   any cohabitation agreement, and

4. •

   any relevant deed of trust

Compliance with the requirements of the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 is essential. The client should be informed in advance of the first meeting of the documentation required. The Law Society guidance