Legislation may change after the last-updated date. Check the official source before relying on any statement.
The challenge
Clients often share a long narrative. Some details matter legally; others may not affect the outcome. A lawyer’s job is to identify the questions that need answers, not merely shorten the story.
Build a timeline
Who did what, when, where and under which documents? Separate verified facts from allegations requiring evidence.
Clarify the desired outcome
Does the client seek performance, compensation, termination or prevention of an action? The objective determines which facts matter.
Identify the legal relationship
Examine the parties, contracts, correspondence, orders, invoices and other records. Do not assume that an agreement exists or does not exist before reviewing the facts and applicable law.
Frame research questions
In a commercial disagreement, questions may include: Was a binding obligation formed? What was its source? Was there a breach? What loss is alleged? What remedy might be available?
These are research questions, not predetermined answers.
Map each issue to evidence
Use a table with the issue, relevant facts, supporting documents, authorities to research and unresolved questions.
Check the requested relief
If a court or decision-maker grants the relief exactly as drafted, will the client achieve the intended practical result? Align the remedy with the legal basis and evidence.
The takeaway: start with facts and objectives, then translate them into questions that can be researched and proved.
Educational methodology, not a legal conclusion about a specific dispute.