The problem presented in the filmed interview is that of the client's inability to work in his usual occupation due to injury to his legs. He has applied for social security disability benefits and has been turned down. The portrayal is his first contact with the legal services office. Through the initial interview, the stage is set for followup interviews as well as other related activities such as investigation, negotiation, and representation. The handbook's basic format follows that of the film. There are 12 comments in the film which have been transcribed and placed under appropriate headings. Each comment is followed by a discussion and elaboration of important issues along with a series of questions to be answered by the trainee. The topics covered include opening the interview, explaining the role of the legal assistant, getting the client to talk about the problem, expressing concern for the client's predicament, exploring the client's social situation, focused fact gathering, handling client's feelings, getting the consent of an informed client, promising success and giving legal advice, and closing the interview. The appendixes contain a discussion of issues involved in determining disability under the Social Security Act and a bibliography of our listing. See NCJ-91148 for related material.