When a potential client calls, what you say in the first 30 seconds can determine whether they hire you. A clear, professional script ensures callers feel confident, protected, and guided toward booking a consultation.
This article shares ready-to-use intake call scripts for law firms — covering greetings, qualification, conflict checks, and warm transfers.
Why Scripts Matter
Consistency
Every caller gets a professional experience, whether handled by staff or AI assistant.
Compliance
Proper disclosures (like call recording consent) reduce legal risk and protect client confidentiality.
Conversion
Structured questions help turn calls into scheduled consultations more effectively.
Scalability
Staff or AI can follow scripts for reliable results across all intake calls.
Scripted Openers
Standard Greeting
"Thank you for calling [Firm Name]. My name is [Name], and I can help schedule your consultation. May I have your name, please?"
With Recording Consent
"This call may be recorded for intake purposes. Do I have your consent to continue?"
Use this when call recording is enabled. Check your state's consent requirements for one-party vs. two-party consent.
After-Hours Example
"You've reached [Firm Name]. We're not in the office right now, but I can help schedule a consultation at the earliest available time."
Qualification Questions
After the greeting, move into basic intake questions that keep the call focused while collecting essential details:
Essential Questions
- "Can you briefly describe the type of legal matter you're calling about?"
- "Have you worked with our firm before?"
- "What's the best number and email to reach you in case we get disconnected?"
Optional Follow-Up Questions
- • "Is this matter time-sensitive?"
- • "Have you consulted with other attorneys about this matter?"
- • "What outcome are you hoping to achieve?"
- • "Do you have any documents related to this matter?"
Conflict of Interest Checks
⚠️ Important
Avoid gathering sensitive facts until a conflict check clears. This protects both the potential client and your firm from ethical issues.
Conflict Prompt
"To ensure we can assist you, I'll need the name of any opposing party involved in your matter."
If Conflict Exists
"Unfortunately, our firm cannot represent you because of an existing relationship. I can provide the local bar association's referral service if you'd like."
Warm Transfer Language
When calls need escalation to an intake manager or attorney, a warm transfer ensures the client feels cared for and provides context to the receiving party.
Standard Warm Transfer
"I'll connect you with our intake manager now. They already have your details so they can assist you right away."
To Attorney
"Let me connect you directly with [Attorney Name], who specializes in [practice area]. I've briefed them on your situation."
📚 Learn More About Warm Transfers
Want to see warm transfers in action as part of a hybrid AI + human approach?
Read the Hybrid Intake GuideBilingual Scripts
If your firm serves multilingual communities, prepare translated scripts. Providing scripts in the top languages of your community shows inclusivity and builds trust.
Spanish Example
"Gracias por llamar a [Firm Name]. Mi nombre es [Name], y puedo ayudarle a programar su consulta. ¿Me puede dar su nombre, por favor?"
Translation: "Thank you for calling [Firm Name]. My name is [Name], and I can help you schedule your consultation. May I have your name, please?"
Best Practices for Multilingual Scripts
- • Identify your top 2-3 client languages
- • Have scripts professionally translated
- • Train staff on proper pronunciation
- • Test with native speakers
- • Include cultural sensitivity considerations
Closing Statements
End every call by confirming the next step and leaving the door open for questions:
Consultation Scheduled
"Your consultation is scheduled for [Date/Time]. You'll receive a confirmation email and text. Is there anything else I can help you with today?"
General Closing
"Thank you for contacting [Firm Name]. Please don't hesitate to call if you have additional questions."
Pro Tips
Keep Scripts Concise
Avoid long robotic monologues. Short, conversational phrases feel more natural and keep callers engaged.
Add Empathetic Language
Include phrases like "I understand, thank you for sharing" or "That sounds challenging" to show you care.
Review Scripts Regularly
Update scripts for compliance changes, new services, or improved language based on caller feedback.
Adapt by Practice Area
Customize scripts for family law, criminal defense, personal injury, corporate law, etc. Each area has different sensitivities.
Key Takeaway
Scripts make intake more professional, not robotic.
Whether handled by staff or AI, a good script ensures potential clients feel heard and are guided smoothly into your consultation process. The goal is consistency and professionalism, not rigid automation.
Next Steps
📚 Learn More
Ready to implement AI intake with professional scripts?
Read the Complete AI Intake GuideStart with one or two scripts, test them with your team, and refine based on real calls. Your potential clients will appreciate the professionalism, and your firm will see improved conversion rates.
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Disclaimer: The information in this article is intended for general educational purposes and should not be relied upon as legal, financial, or compliance advice. Laws and regulations vary by jurisdiction and may change over time. Before implementing any AI intake solution, consult with qualified legal and compliance professionals to ensure your specific situation meets all applicable requirements and industry standards.