Preparing for the SQE2 client interview: structure and note-taking

The client interview assesses how you gather facts, identify the client's objectives and give appropriate initial guidance in a limited time. The attendance note or legal analysis that follows tests whether you can turn the conversation into something another fee earner could act on. Practice areas and timings are set out in the SRA's specification; the approach below is a general method to adapt.

1. Open well

Introduce yourself and your role, confirm the time available and agree an agenda. A short opening shows the client you are organised and lets you check what they hope to achieve. Where relevant, address confidentiality and how you will be recording the discussion.

2. Find the real objective

Clients often arrive with a stated request that is not their underlying goal. Ask open questions ("tell me what happened", "what would a good outcome look like?") then narrow with closed questions to pin down dates, amounts and documents. Summarise back at intervals so the client can correct you.

3. Listen for professional issues

In realistic scenarios, conduct issues are built in: a possible conflict, an instruction that raises a confidentiality or integrity concern, a vulnerable client or a limitation problem. Treat them as part of the facts you are gathering. If something needs to be raised, do it clearly and calmly.

4. Close with next steps

Summarise what you have understood, explain what you will do and what the client needs to do, and give a realistic indication of timing and cost-related points where they were part of the scenario. Avoid promises about outcomes.

Writing the attendance note

• Lead with the essentials: parties, objective, key facts and the immediate issues.
• Record instructions and advice separately from background facts.
• List next steps with who is responsible and by when.
• Keep it factual and concise; do not copy the whole conversation.
• Apply the law when the task asks for analysis, in a short and structured way.

Practising alone and with others

Role-play with a study partner, recording yourself if you are comfortable doing so, then review against the published assessment criteria. Time yourself for both the interview and the note, because the time limits shape what is realistic.

Any feedback you receive, human or automated, is educational. It is not an official mark, and it is only as good as your comparison of it with the criteria.

General educational information only. It is not legal advice, it does not predict any exam result, and UK SQE Course is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Solicitors Regulation Authority. Check the SRA website for current exam information.