Feeling lost amid the complexities of divorce is not uncommon. When faced with the daunting prospect of navigating legal proceedings, many individuals turn to a divorce attorney for guidance and clarity. The initial consultation serves as a lifeline, offering a beacon of hope and understanding during a time that likely feels overwhelming. In this article, we’ll explore how to prepare for your first consultation with a divorce attorney, empowering you to take control of your journey and make informed decisions about your future.

Before your consultation, you may have specific cultural or personal considerations to address. Perhaps you own your own business or you have children with special needs. Whatever your challenge, the right attorney will be able to assess your case, develop a strategy and walk you through the process.

But, the attorney-client relationship is a two-way street. Attorneys need documents and information from you so that we can do our jobs and represent you to the best of our ability. Here’s a checklist to ensure you’re well-prepared to have the most productive meeting possible:

1. Legal Documents: Gather any relevant legal documents related to your marriage, including prenuptial agreements or separation agreements, if any exist.
2. Financial Records: Collect recent tax returns, pay stubs, bank statements, investment account statements, mortgage documents, and any other financial records relevant to your marriage.
3. Documentation of Marital Issues: If there are specific issues within your marriage, such as instances of domestic violence or substance abuse, gather any relevant documentation or evidence to support your claims.
4. Questions and Concerns: Prepare a list of questions and concerns you have about the divorce process, child custody, spousal support, property division, and any other relevant topics.
5. Personal Information: Bring identification, social security numbers for you, your spouse, and any children, as well as relevant contact information.

By ensuring you have these documents and information readily available, you’ll facilitate a more productive consultation with your attorney.

During your consultation, it’s also crucial to address cultural sensitivity and ensure the attorney understands and respects your unique needs and circumstances. Ideally, the relationship will become a continuing dialogue, with open and honest communication on both sides. Here are some important questions to consider and may help you assess if the attorney is right for your particular case:

1. Cultural Awareness: Inquire about the attorney’s experience working with clients from diverse cultural backgrounds and their approach to addressing cultural sensitivities in divorce cases.
2. Communication Style: Discuss how the attorney communicates with clients and their availability to address your questions and concerns throughout the legal process.
3. Fee Structure: Clarify the attorney’s fee structure and any additional costs associated with their services to ensure transparency and avoid surprises later on.
4. Case Strategy: Seek the attorney’s assessment of your case and their proposed strategy for achieving your goals, whether through negotiation, mediation, or litigation.

Preparing for your initial consultation with a divorce attorney requires attention to both legal and personal details. By gathering necessary documents, preparing questions, and addressing cultural sensitivity concerns, you’ll set the stage for a productive and effective consultation. Remember, your attorney is there to guide you through this challenging time with professionalism and empathy. With the right preparation and communication, you can navigate the divorce process with confidence and clarity.

Eliana T. Baer is a partner in the family law practice group of Fox Rothschild LLP, representing clients statewide in divorce, asset distribution, support, custody, domestic violence, premarital agreements, and appellate practice. Eliana has been selected to the Best Lawyers in America (2024), Super Lawyers-Rising Stars (2014-2023), New Leaders to the Bar by the New Jersey Law Journal (2018), “Top 10 Under 40” list by the National Academy of Family Law Attorneys (2017), and “Trailblazers” list in Divorce Law (2016)*. Eliana appears in both civil and rabbinical court. You can reach Eliana at (609) 895-3344, or [email protected].

 ^*Award methodology available at www.foxrothschild.com/eliana-baer/honors-awards.