Preparing for Your First Meeting with a Divorce Attorney

Speaking with a divorce attorney is one of the first steps that couples who are thinking about dissolving their marriage should take. However, once initial contact has been made, you may be left wondering what you should do next to prepare for your first in-person meeting. We understand that this can be a nerve-wracking time and so have compiled a list of helpful suggestions to ensure that your divorce-related issues are resolved as quickly and easily as possible. To learn more about the divorce process in Florida, please contact a member of our dedicated legal team today.

Compiling Documentation  

It is a good idea to come prepared for your first meeting with your divorce attorney by bringing documentation that can help provide a broad understanding of the facts of your case. For instance, creating a timetable of the events that led to your decision to contact an attorney is a good starting point and can serve as an extremely helpful point of reference during the initial meeting. This timeline should include all significant events in your marriage, including any attempts at counseling, prior reconciliations, or the date of separation. You’ll also want to consider bringing copies of all pertinent documentation, such as:

• Marriage certificates;
• Prenuptial agreements;
• Any previous marriage divorce decrees;
• Tax returns for the prior three years;
• A list of the names and contact information of your employer and your spouse’s employer;
• A list of previous employers;
• A description of your educational background;
• Driver’s license and Social Security numbers for both parties;
• Information related to your household income;
• The names and ages of your children;
• A description of any previous legal proceedings in which you or your spouse were involved;
• Current bank and investment account statements;
• Documents related to ownership or valuation of personal property, such as jewelry or antiques;
• Documents noting the value of all real estate holdings, as well as the purchase date and price;
• Statements for all of a couple’s debts, including credit card statements;
• Life insurance policies; and
• Documentation related to any inheritances or gifts made during the marriage.

Of course, it is not necessary to bring all of this information to your first meeting with your attorney, but it’s a good idea to start looking for copies of financial records early in the process, as taking this step can go a long way towards ensuring the speedy resolution of your case.

Asking Questions  

One of the most important things that those who are considering divorce should do at their first meeting with an attorney is ask questions. Understanding the divorce process is critical to those who are involved, so don’t be afraid to ask for clarification at any point during the meeting. Open communication is one of the best ways to avoid misunderstandings between you and your attorney.

Call Today for Legal Advice  

If you are thinking about filing for divorce, please call us today to schedule a free consultation with dedicated Fort Lauderdale divorce attorney Sandra Bonfiglio, P.A. We are standing by and eager to address your questions and concerns.

Resource:

huffingtonpost.com/joseph-e-cordell/three-ways-to-value-your-_b_2726041.html