What to Bring to Your First Meeting with a Divorce Attorney

When you’re heading into your first meeting with a divorce attorney, it’s crucial to be prepared. This initial consultation can set the tone for the entire legal process, so having the right documents and information ready can make a significant difference. Below is a comprehensive guide on what to bring to ensure you get the most out of this important meeting.

1. Personal Identification and Information

First and foremost, you should bring valid personal identification, such as a driver's license or passport. This helps the attorney verify your identity and ensure all records are accurate. Additionally, it’s useful to have your Social Security number and that of your spouse on hand.

2. Marriage and Divorce Documents

Your marriage certificate is a key document to bring, as it confirms the legal details of your marriage. If you have already initiated any divorce proceedings or if there are existing court orders, bring copies of these documents as well. This includes any previous legal filings or orders related to the marriage.

3. Financial Documents

Divorce often involves the division of assets and liabilities, so you should prepare a comprehensive financial portfolio. This includes:

• Bank Statements: Statements from all bank accounts, including checking, savings, and any investment accounts.
• Tax Returns: Copies of tax returns for the past few years. These are crucial for understanding income and financial status.
• Pay Stubs: Recent pay stubs from both you and your spouse to gauge income levels.
• Property Records: Deeds or records for any property owned jointly or individually.
• Investment Records: Documentation for any stocks, bonds, retirement accounts, or other investments.

4. Debt Information

A detailed list of all debts is also necessary. This includes:

• Credit Card Statements: Current statements for all credit cards.
• Loan Documents: Information on any loans, such as mortgages, car loans, or personal loans.
• Student Loans: Details about any student loans that are in your or your spouse’s name.

5. Information About Children

If you have children, bring documentation related to their care and custody. This includes:

• Birth Certificates: Copies of the children’s birth certificates.
• School Records: Recent school records or any documentation related to their education.
• Medical Records: Information about the children’s medical history or current health status.
• Childcare Costs: Documentation of any current or anticipated childcare expenses.

6. Evidence of Communication

Gather any evidence of communication with your spouse that pertains to the divorce. This includes:

• Emails and Text Messages: Relevant communications that might pertain to the issues at hand.
• Letters: Any written correspondence that could impact the divorce proceedings.

7. A List of Questions and Concerns

Prepare a list of questions or concerns you want to address with the attorney. This could include questions about the legal process, potential outcomes, and the attorney's experience. Being clear about what you need to know will help make the consultation more productive.

8. A Personal Summary

A brief summary of your marriage, including any significant events or issues, can provide the attorney with a quick overview of your situation. This helps them understand the context and better prepare for your case.

9. Relevant Legal Documents

If applicable, bring any legal documents from previous or ongoing legal matters. This includes restraining orders, previous divorce decrees, or any legal agreements you’ve entered into.

10. Any Previous Legal Advice

If you have already consulted with another attorney or received any legal advice, bring notes or summaries of that advice. This can help the new attorney understand what has been discussed previously and how to proceed from there.

Final Tips

• Be Honest and Detailed: Provide complete and honest information. Your attorney needs a full picture to give the best advice.
• Stay Organized: Keep all documents well-organized and easily accessible. This will help streamline the process and make the meeting more efficient.
• Be Prepared to Discuss: Be ready to discuss your goals and concerns openly with your attorney. This helps them tailor their advice to your specific needs.

By bringing these documents and information to your first meeting, you’ll be setting yourself up for a smoother and more effective divorce process. This preparation not only shows that you are serious about the proceedings but also helps your attorney better understand and address your unique situation.