If you’re facing the prospect of a divorce, then you’re not alone. In 2019, 7.6 of every 1,000 women aged 15 and older went through a divorce. Reasons for divorce often include money issues, infidelity, or simply irreconcilable differences.
When the timing is right, you need to reach out to a divorce lawyer to represent your interests in the proceedings and give you legal advice. Your first divorce attorney consultation is an important step in any divorce situation because it’s a chance for your attorney to understand your circumstances and begin to make a plan.
If you choose to work with me as an expert divorce attorney in Texas, I can help you maximize your preparation. Showing up prepared and aware of what will take place during our preliminary consultation will greatly help your case and help me effectively represent your interests throughout the divorce proceedings.
What to Bring to Your Divorce Attorney Consultation
During your first session, known as the initial consultation, we’ll discuss your current situation, review your case, and discuss the best way to move forward. I can help you make informed decisions regarding your situation if you bring some key elements to the meeting. Consider this list of suggested items to gather up for our consultation.
1. List of Questions and Concerns
The divorce process brings up a lot of uncertainty. So it’s understandable for you to have questions and concerns when a breakup is looming.
Write down specific questions and things you are uncertain about before our consultation. Common questions many clients have include:
- How will we determine child custody and child support?
- How will we divide up assets?
- Can I expect to pay or receive spousal support?
- What will happen to our family home or other real estate properties?
- What can I expect to pay in attorney’s fees?
Every divorce case is unique, and the answers to these questions will be unique to your circumstances. As your attorney, I will help you find the answers you’re looking for.
2. Financial Records
I need to understand the most up-to-date financial status of both you and your spouse when representing your interests. Often, dividing up assets (and determining who is responsible for debts) can become a highly contentious issue that causes divorces to drag on.
Consider providing these records that give a snapshot of your financial position:
- Pay stubs (a minimum of three months’ worth)
- Checking/savings account statements
- Property assessment of your home
- Bank records that capture assets and liabilities
3. Tax Returns
Tax returns are a great way to help me develop a comprehensive picture of you and your spouse’s entire financial situation. Whether you file jointly or separately, your tax documents will aid greatly in the calculation of spousal support when necessary.
4. Legal and Other Financial Documents
Also, consider bringing other financial and legal documents that pertain to your marriage to our consultation. I find the following records useful to help me assess your situation:
- Pre- or postnuptial agreements
- Separation agreements
- Copies of each child’s birth certificate
- Mortgage, car, and other loan documents
- Titles and deeds proving asset ownership
Essentially, you should try to bring any legal or financial document created during or for your marriage.
5. Other Evidence
Aside from financial and asset-related records, you should also provide evidence that supports the cause of the divorce. Bring in evidence of cheating, stealing, or any other negative behavior, even if it is something you did. Evidence of this nature may include:
- Texts
- Photos
- Emails
- Voice mails
Don’t be afraid to share anything that may affect the divorce. As an experienced lawyer, I can help you navigate any challenging situations that will affect the divorce at some point. It’s better to get everything out on the table upfront than deal with it later.
Keep in mind that our conversations are protected because of the attorney-client privilege. I will carry out discussions with you respectfully and discreetly.
Schedule a Divorce Attorney Consultation with an Experienced Attorney
The legal divorce process is difficult and taxing on each spouse’s mental health and resources. I have years of experience in helping clients through this trying time as they work to rebuild their lives and strengthen their prospects for the future.
If you need skilled and caring representation from a seasoned professional, contact me to discuss your case. I’ll perform an initial assessment of your situation over the phone; then, we can schedule a time for a consultation to review evidence, records, and documents.
I currently serve as a legal advocate for clients in Brazoria County, Fort Bend County, and Harris County. If you live in one of these Texas counties, then call my offices today at 281-944-5485 or 979-267-7660 to get started. I look forward to helping you with your divorce case.