If you’ve decided to pursue a divorce, the first step is to meet with a divorce attorney for a consultation. In order to get the most out of your initial meeting, you need to be prepared. Here are three ways to lay the groundwork for your consultation.
Consider what your objectives are for your divorce.
Before meeting with an attorney, it’s important to consider your options for dissolving your marriage. For example, if you are hoping to avoid litigation, you can attempt to resolve things amicably through mediation. You will also need to determine your overall objectives. Consider how you would you like to divide communal property and other assets, and decide whether you will be seeking spousal support. If you have children, you’ll want to discuss terms for a custody arrangement and child support.
Prepare a list of questions you want to ask the divorce attorney.
After you’ve made an appointment to meet with a divorce attorney, you should begin making a list of questions you’d like answered. Here are examples of some important questions you may want to ask during your consultation:
- How does the attorney bill his or her clients, and what are the fees?
- Can the attorney give you an estimated total cost?
- What is the attorney’s experience with family law?
- What is the attorney’s experience with going to trial?
- How would the attorney approach and handle your case?
- Find out what you can expect regarding the specifics of your case, including alimony, division of property, child support, etc.
Collect and bring relevant documents.
In order to get an accurate assessment of your case, you’ll need to provide a lot of important information. Before your consultation, get organized and make copies of relevant documents. Several documents a divorce attorney may request include:
- Any legal documents regarding your marriage, such as a prenuptial agreement
- Financial statements, including banking, investment accounts, and retirement funds
- Documentation related to property and other assets
- Paystubs and tax returns for both spouses
During a consultation, an experienced attorney can help you determine the best course of action and alleviate any anxiety you may be feeling about the divorce proceedings.
At Andersen, Tate & Carr, our attorneys are dedicated to reaching the best possible outcome for our clients. Our criminal defense attorneys, Patrick McDonough and Trinity Hundredmark, have combined experience of more than 30 years representing clients facing criminal charges in Georgia. For more information, or to request a case evaluation, contact our law office at 1-770-822-0900.