Follow-up and Next Steps
After the initial consultation, the lawyer or their team outlines the immediate next steps, such as gathering more evidence, drafting a letter, or scheduling another meeting, and sets expectations for communication.
Dialogue
Listen and follow along with the conversation
Vocabulary
Essential words and phrases from the dialogue
draft
A preliminary version of a document, like a letter, that can be revised before finalizing. In legal contexts, it means preparing an initial copy for review.
chronologically
In order of time, from earliest to latest. Useful when organizing documents or events to show a clear timeline.
scanned copies
Digital versions of physical documents created by scanning them with a machine. This is a common way to share files electronically in professional settings.
hard copies
Physical, printed versions of documents, as opposed to digital ones. People sometimes prefer them for official reviews.
follow-up
A subsequent action or meeting to continue or check on previous discussions. It's often used in business to maintain communication.
business days
Weekdays (Monday to Friday) when offices are open, excluding weekends and holidays. Timelines in professional services are often counted this way.
straightforward
Simple and clear, without complications. Use this to describe instructions or processes that are easy to understand.
urgent
Requiring immediate attention or action. In communications, it signals something important that can't wait.
Key Sentences
Important phrases to remember and practice
Based on what we've discussed today, our immediate next step will be to send a formal letter to the other party.
This sentence outlines future actions using 'based on' for reasoning and 'immediate next step' for urgency. It's useful in professional discussions to summarize plans and set expectations.
What information do you need from me to help draft that letter?
A polite question using 'what...do you need' to ask for required details. The infinitive 'to help' shows purpose. Great for seeking clarification in consultations.
Please organize them chronologically if possible.
This is a polite request with 'please' and conditional 'if possible' to soften it. 'Chronologically' specifies how to arrange items. Use in instructions for organizing information.
Scanned copies emailed to my assistant would be ideal for now.
Uses conditional 'would be' to suggest a preferred option politely. 'Ideal for now' implies it's the best temporary choice. Helpful for giving preferences in business emails.
Once we receive your documents, we'll aim to have a draft ready for your review within five business days.
Time clause with 'once' for sequence, and 'aim to' for intended goals. 'Within five business days' sets a realistic timeline. Useful for managing expectations in services.
You can always email Sarah, or call our main office line and ask for her.
Offers options with 'can always' for reliability and 'or' to connect alternatives. Imperative 'ask for' is direct. Perfect for providing contact instructions.
Thank you for making these next steps so straightforward.
Expresses gratitude with 'thank you for' plus gerund 'making'. 'So straightforward' emphasizes clarity. Use to politely end conversations and show appreciation.