Is there an initial consultation charge for meeting with a lawyer?
Lawyers, depending on the area they specialize in may or may not charge for a first meeting. You always need to call ahead to schedule a meeting and ask if there is a fee for the initial consultation.
If you decide not to go forward with the lawyer after your first meeting, you are not required or obligated to hire that lawyer.
Lawyer referral services:
If you find your lawyer through a local lawyer referral service, the service may charge a small referral fee for the initial consultation. If the case involves some type of personal injury, the referral fee is often waived. Be sure to ask, when you call to get lawyer referral whether there is a referral fee.