On behalf of Stange Law Firm, PC posted in divorce on Friday, June 17, 2016.
If you are considering a divorce or if you have been served with a petition, it is possible that you will soon be given advice from friends and family about what to expect regardless of whether you want to hear it or not. The one thing you should know is that the advice may largely be based on their own personal experiences.
In the midst of all this, your friends and family may not give you any insight on how to prepare for your initial consultation. After all, this meeting is critical for learning the basics surrounding the process, and for determining if the lawyer you are meeting with is the best person for you. As such, preparation is key, and this post will provide a few tips.
Be in a reasonable emotional state – Indeed, going through a divorce or custody battle can be a highly emotional experience, and you may have a lot to talk through. However, a lawyer is not a therapist, so you should stick to the legal issues you are seeking advice on.
Be prepared to discuss your assets and debts – It is important for your attorney to learn about your financial situation so that he or she may identify and counsel you on existing (and potential) legal issues. So bringing information about your bank accounts, retirement funds,; as well as information about credit card debt, and any mortgage debt will be helpful.
Be prepared to set goals involving the kids – As a parent, you don’t want to disappear from your child’s life during (or after ) the divorce. So the consult will also help in gauging any custody and parenting time issues.
