What happens at a consultation with a divorce lawyer?
What information will they need, etc?
3 Responses
autumn
08 Feb 2010
Wildflower
08 Feb 2010
The reason for the divorce, any information you have pertaining to the reason for the divorce.. children’s names, birthdates, etc.. you and your spouse’s name, birthdate, date of marriage, location of marriage, social security of spouse if possible (for property search), description of property owned, approximate value if known, etc.. of course, it’s just the start, but if the meeting goes well, it’s best to have as much info as possible in case you want to start immediately ….
jherder2
08 Feb 2010
you talk,money,terms,quite simple,no need to be intimidated.
A consultation with a divorce lawyer is an opportunity for you to decide if you want to use that lawyer or not. You can ask him/her questions about their rates and anything else you want pertaining to the divorce or about how they would proceed. It’s a good way for you to compare different lawyers and their rates, and to decide whether you would have confidence in one to work for you or not. Most consultations are free, but some charge, so it’s always best to make sure first so there are no surprises. You might find one you like right off the bat, but it might be a good idea to talk with a few before you decide.
You will probably just need some basic information with you for the consultation: incomes, whether you own a house or not, the date and place the marriage took place, the reason you are seeking divorce, whether there are kids involved or not, etc. You might want to have additional information with you, though, just in case, such as SSN numbers, 401k/retirement plans, stocks, savings and checking accounts, credit cards, loans and other debts. You could bring along a copy of your last year’s taxes. Mostly, though, the consultation is for you to decide whether you think that lawyer is a good fit for you. If you decide to use them, they will let you know what other information they will need.