One of the most important steps you can take in life is the first consultation with your divorce attorney. Because the decision to divorce can be incredibly stressful by itself, that initial meeting with your divorce lawyer can remove much of the tension.
In this issue, the San Diego divorce lawyers with the Men’s Legal Center will talk more about the importance of the initial consultation and how you can prepare yourself for it.
Why is the first meeting with my divorce lawyer so important?
Settling your mind and getting to know all your options are among the chief benefits of your first meeting with your divorce lawyer.
For example, if you simply want your divorce to be over as quickly as possible, talking about divorce mediation or collaborative divorce may be better options for you.
Also, sharing your priorities – time with your children, your financial and personal goals, etc. – with your divorce lawyer straight from the beginning is vital so they can properly guide and advise you. Your lawyer knows what is most important to you is essential in building a strategy for your case.
How should I prepare for my first meeting with my divorce lawyer?
While it’s normal to experience a bit of anxiety before your first meeting, taking a few moments to prepare yourself beforehand will be greatly beneficial in keeping you focused.
- List whatever questions are on your mind.
Take advantage of your divorce lawyer’s expertise by asking whatever questions are on your mind. Many people are unfamiliar with the particulars of the County of San Diego legal system, so no question you ask your divorce lawyer should be withheld. If it’s on your mind, list it and ask about it. - Gather as much financial documentation as you can.
If possible, bring photocopies of pay stubs, W-2’s, tax returns for the last three years, statements on all credit card and bank accounts, mortgage statements, and retirement or 401-K plan statements. - Establish your wish list.
Ask yourself what you would want the divorce settlement to say right now, then write it down. For example, if you want to keep the family home, a specified custody arrangement, possession of certain marital assets, etc., write it all down so that you can start the conversation with your divorce lawyer. - Documents related to your case.
In addition to a copy of your marriage license, you should also bring those of any prenuptial or postnuptial agreements, birth certificates of your children and their medical records.
If you’re facing divorce in San Diego, call the San Diego divorce lawyers at the Men’s Legal Center.
Because divorce will affect just about every aspect of your life, it pays to be prepared – especially for that first meeting with your divorce attorney.
Make your first appointment and receive a free phone consultation by calling 619-234-3838 or getting in touch via email.
