IMP LEMENTATIO N 8.4 First Meeting with a Client: How to Do Intake Once you decide to take on a client, the paralegal will need to talk with him or her to find out more details about the case, and work out together what course of action might be appropriate. This initial consultation is a critical moment for capturing information about cases, which can be used as baseline data in project evaluations or to inform advocacy. It is important to create a welcoming atmosphere during the intake discussion, in order to encourage clients to speak openly. Paralegals should do things in line with cultural norms that put people at ease, such as asking after the client’s family. Paralegal projects often use a comfortable, private room for intake. During an initial consultation or interview, paralegals should cover the following topics: 4 4 4  ho the paralegal project/organization is, what it does, and why W  mpathy with the difficulties faced by the community E Confidentiality, binding both the paralegal and the interpreter, if present 4 Reassurance that the consultation is a “safe space,” where there will be no discrimination or judgment 4 4  onfirmation that the service is free C  hat paralegals can do for the client (being clear that they are not W lawyers) 4 4  ow the client can give feedback on paralegal services H  onfirmation that the person accompanying a minor to a C consultation is the parent or legal guardian; reminder that the client can speak alone if desired 4 Confirmation to go ahead with an interview: client/guardian’s informed consent 4 4 4  sking questions in order to clarify what problem they face A Information on relevant laws, policies, and procedures Reminder of any relevant consequences of using fraudulent documents 4 RELATED RESOURCE For inspiration on drawing up and applying vulnerability criteria, see: • Identifying and addressing vulnerability: a tool for asylum and migration systems, UNHCR and the International Detention Coalition. 96 | Possible courses of action, and their advantages and disadvantages, including the authorities that would be contacted 4 4  xpected next steps if case is opened E  onfirmation to open a case: informed consent of the client or the C parent or guardian if a minor and discussion of next steps in the process 4  Asking whether the client can commit to sharing the information they have learned from the consultation, and what they will learn from any upcoming actions. This can motivate a client to learn the steps he or she will navigate to obtain documentation, and spread this information among the community, furthering empowerment. Projects often ask if clients will share information with two people. A C O M M U N I T Y- B A S E D P R A C T I T I O N E R ’ S G U I D E : D O C U M E N T I N G C I T I Z E N S H I P A N D OT H E R F O R M S O F L E G A L I D E N T I T Y