# Client product guide

Marketplace cases, proposals, appointments, messages, hire requests, and contracts — step by step.

5 min read

## Messages

Talk with attorneys about your case, proposals, and next steps — after you engage with them first.

### Client messages

#### Messages

**Maria S.**  
New  
I can help with your custody matter.  
  
**David L.**  
Happy to discuss your case this week.

## How it works

1. You must first engage with an attorney before messaging starts. From a proposal on [My cases](https://www.openlaw.com/client/dashboard/cases), use Send message, Book a meeting, or send a hire request to open a conversation.
2. Open [Messages](https://www.openlaw.com/client/dashboard/messages) from your client dashboard.
3. Select a conversation tied to your case to view messages from attorneys you have engaged with.
4. Ask questions before hiring, clarify fees, or follow up after sending a hire request.
5. Your message history stays linked to the case so you always have context.

## Good to know

- You cannot start a new conversation from Messages alone — engage from a proposal first.
- If you have not contacted an attorney yet, open your case and use Send message on their proposal.