We’ve all heard that 50% of marriages end in divorce. If you live in Arizona, the percentage is even higher. You never thought it would happen to you, but now you’re faced with the reality that you or your spouse is going to file for divorce.
Going to meet with a divorce or family law attorney for the first time can be a very stressful situation. Emotions are high and you’re fearful of what is going to happen to you and/or your children.
The family law attorneys at Owens & Perkins recognize this is a difficult time, and want to offer some tips on how to prepare for your initial consultation. Having these items in order will help your attorney answer your questions and guide you in the right direction.
First, find some quiet time to focus on these tips in preparing for your initial consultation.
- Gather and bring with you any paperwork that has already been filed with the Court, if any;
- Create and bring with you an outline of your finances that lits all sources of income for you and your spouse, your debts and your assets;
- Think about what you want out of the divorce (what is most important to you regarding the kids, finances, assets, property, etc.); put it in writing and bring it with you to your first appointment;
- Bring a list of all the questions you have (this will keep you from forgetting them once you get here — of course, we’re only a phone call away if you think of additional questions after you leave!); and
- Arrive 10 minutes before your scheduled appointment to complete the Firm’s initial consultation information form.
These tips will help you have a more productive consultation. Providing your attorney with as much information as possible will assist him or her in addressing the issues at hand and guiding you in the best course of action.
