SQE2 Client Interview

Question 1

During an initial client interview, what should a solicitor do first before discussing the substantive legal issues?

Accepted Answer

Establish the client's identity, explain the retainer terms, and confirm there are no conflicts of interest

Answer

Immediately advise the client on the merits of their case

Answer

Ask the client to sign a blank engagement letter

Answer

Begin drafting court documents

Question 2

A client becomes visibly distressed during an interview when discussing a sensitive family matter. What is the most appropriate response?

Accepted Answer

Acknowledge the client's feelings, offer a brief pause, and proceed at their pace

Answer

Continue questioning without acknowledging the distress to maintain professional distance

Answer

Terminate the interview immediately

Answer

Tell the client they need to control their emotions to proceed

Question 3

When taking instructions from a client who has limited English proficiency, what should the solicitor arrange?

Accepted Answer

Arrange for a professional interpreter and confirm the client consents to the interpreter's presence

Answer

Ask a family member present to translate

Answer

Proceed slowly and use simple English only

Answer

Decline to act for the client

Question 4

A prospective client asks a solicitor for advice during an initial interview but the matter falls outside the solicitor's area of expertise. What should the solicitor do?

Accepted Answer

Advise the client honestly that the matter is outside their expertise and refer them to a specialist

Answer

Accept the instructions and research the area of law later

Answer

Provide general advice and hope it is sufficient

Answer

Decline to engage with the client at all

Question 5

During a client interview, the client reveals information that suggests a third party may be at imminent risk of serious harm. What should the solicitor consider?

Accepted Answer

Whether the exception to confidentiality for preventing serious harm applies, and whether disclosure to appropriate authorities is justified

Answer

The duty of confidentiality is absolute and prevents any disclosure

Answer

Immediately calling the police without further assessment

Answer

Ignoring the information as it is not relevant to the retainer

Question 6

What is the purpose of providing a client care letter following the initial interview?

Accepted Answer

To confirm the instructions, explain the scope of work, costs, complaints procedure, and regulatory information

Answer

To market the firm's other services to the client

Answer

To serve as a binding contract that cannot be varied

Answer

To satisfy the court that the solicitor has been instructed