How to Prepare for a Divorce Attorney Consultation

Going through a divorce is difficult enough as it is, but for many people, a divorce is also the first time they meet with a lawyer. Your first meeting with your divorce lawyer is important, so you’ll want to make sure that you are well prepared to get the most out of your initial consultation. 

Below we’ll go over the things to keep in mind, and what to expect at your first meeting, so you’ll know how to prepare for a divorce attorney consultation. 

1. Is This Lawyer a Good Fit?

To gauge your attorney’s degree of experience and competence here are a few good questions to ask: 

• How long have you practiced divorce law?
• Have you handled cases before that are similar to mine?
• Have you worked with my ex-spouse’s attorney or my judge before?

You should also ask yourself whether this is someone you feel comfortable working with and sharing details of your life with for an extended period of time. 

2. Be Prepared to Share. 

To provide you with an accurate picture of what the divorce process is likely to look like, your attorney first needs to know some of the details of your life, your spouse’s life, and your marriage. 

Be prepared to discuss openly and honestly your situation including your income, your spouse’s income, your children, division of marital assets, child support, alimony, etc.  

This consultation is completely covered by attorney-client privilege, so you don’t need to worry about the security of the information you share. 

3. Gathering Relevant Documents.

One way to speed up the process is by bringing relevant documents to the meeting so that your attorney can gain a more detailed perspective about the issues likely to arise in your marriage and divorce proceedings. 

The relevant documents vary based on the specific details of your marriage and divorce but can include pay stubs, a list of assets, a list of liabilities including mortgages and credit cards, work schedules, the divorce complaint if it has been filed, prenuptial agreements, and tax returns. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Working With Hart Ginney

At Hart Ginney, we are intentional about making the divorce process as smooth, clear, and comfortable as possible for you. With years of experience handling a wide variety of divorces, we are prepared to take on your case and advocate on your behalf. Contact us today to set up your consultation.