Four Things to Bring to Your Initial Divorce Consultation

The significance of initial consultations in your legal journey cannot be overstated. It marks the commencement of a transformative phase, met with a spectrum of emotions from clients. For some, it's a daunting acknowledgment that life changes are on the horizon. On the contrary, others embrace it eagerly, especially when issues like support, custody, or domestic violence have escalated to a point where change is imperative. Whether you circle the office multiple times before entering or show up an hour early with NSYNC’s "Bye Bye Bye" playing, these four things will optimize your experience during the initial office conference.

Bring a written list of questions you want answered before you walk out that door.

In the midst of heightened emotions, you finally have the opportunity to share your perspective and receive immediate insights into the legal options available to you. Yet, some clients become so engrossed in narrating their stories that they lose sight of their primary objective—to seek answers to their legal inquiries. Responses may range from straightforward solutions to nuanced "it depends," accompanied by explanations of potential outcomes. Regardless, the aim remains to depart the office with more clarity than when you arrived. To ensure you cover all your concerns, jot down at least five questions before the consultation and bring this list on a physical paper. Failing to do so increases the likelihood of leaving with unanswered questions.

Wear a watch, and watch the side stories.

Relationships are built on countless small moments, like the times he took you for granted or she asked for more openness only to get upset later. While these details matter, save them for later discussions. In your initial meeting, focus on significant events that led you here – the night he got physical after drinking too much, the day she said she no longer loves you, the moment you discovered he was seeing someone else, or when your ex-wife moved in with her boyfriend while you were still paying alimony. Keep on track, check your watch, and resist the urge to dive into those side stories right away.

Your most recent tax return and last month’s pay statements.

Almost every domestic case involves finances, whether it’s child support, spousal support, or the division of bank accounts in equitable distribution. A 5 minute review of your tax return (and recent paystubs) will likely afford your domestic law attorney with more information than you could give in 30 minutes of talking. This is an easy and straightforward way to save time so you can focus on getting the legal answers and feedback you came for.

A laptop, or a notepad and pen.

Initial consults can be overwhelming. After leaving the office, you want to be sure that you have a few notes jotted down in order to keep your brain fresh as a good reminder for what you just learned. It may sound silly, but these items are crucial!