Messages & Conversations

When an attorney sends you an inquiry and you accept it, a message thread is created so you can continue the conversation. All your threads are accessible from the Messages page.

#Accessing Messages

Go to Dashboard → Messages in the sidebar. The Messages link shows a badge with your unread message count, which updates in real time as new messages arrive.

#Thread List

The Messages page shows all your active conversations with attorneys, sorted by most recent activity. Each thread card displays:

• Unread indicator — an amber dot on the left when you have unread messages
• Attorney name — the attorney who started the conversation
• Subject — the thread subject (typically from the original inquiry)
• Last message preview — a truncated preview of the most recent message
• Timestamp — relative time since the last message (e.g., "2 hours ago")
• Unread badge — a count of unread messages in the thread

#Searching Conversations

Use the search bar at the top of the page to filter conversations by attorney name, subject, or message content — including text inside the conversation itself, not just the subject or latest message. When a search only matches something said earlier in the thread, the row shows that part of the message with your search terms highlighted instead of the latest-message preview, so you can see why it matched. An Unread filter next to the search narrows the list to conversations with unread messages.

#Scrolling Through Threads

The list draws in batches as you scroll down, rather than splitting into numbered pages — keep scrolling (or use the Show more button at the bottom) to reach older conversations.

#Reading & Replying

Click any thread card to open the full conversation view. The chat interface shows:

• Header — attorney name, thread subject and status, with a back button to return to the list
• Message history — all messages displayed as chat bubbles, with your messages on the right (amber) and attorney messages on the left
• Message input — a text field at the bottom with a Send button

#Sending a Message

Type your message in the input field and press Enter or click the Send button. The message appears immediately in the conversation.

#Read Receipts

When you open a conversation, all unread messages from the attorney are automatically marked as read. The unread badge on the Messages sidebar link and the thread card update accordingly.

#Archived Threads

If a thread has been archived, you can still view the message history, but the input area will show "This conversation has been archived" and you won't be able to send new messages.

#Real-Time Updates

Message threads update in real time. When an attorney sends you a new message:

• The Messages badge in the sidebar increments
• If you're viewing the thread list, the thread moves to the top with an updated preview
• If you're inside the thread, the new message appears automatically and scrolls into view

#Tips

• Respond promptly — attorneys value quick responses, especially for time-sensitive cases
• Be specific — include relevant details about your availability, rates, and expertise
• Check Messages regularly — the sidebar badge keeps you aware of unread conversations

#Related

• Getting Started — overview of the expert experience
• FAQ — common questions about inquiries and communication