How to Prepare for a Divorce Consultation

If you are thinking about getting a divorce, you should first try to imagine your life after divorce. This means taking stock of your life, both emotionally and financially. It also means taking steps to better understand your options and possible outcomes by consulting with a family law attorney. To prepare for a divorce consultation, it is important to understand your current situation and  gather financial documents.

For many, their financial future is one of the greatest unknowns, and understanding your current situation can help you better plan for the changes brought by divorce. Too many people, especially women, are in the dark about family finances, assets, and debts because the other spouse has always handled that part of their marriage. If possible, start gathering information to understand your situation. There is nothing wrong with being proactive. Once you have collected your documentation, the next best step is to schedule a consultation with a family law attorney.

Documents You Should Gather to Prepare for a Divorce Consultation

When scheduling a consultation, you should ask the attorney or their staff what information they need from you to make the consultation the most productive and informative. Below is an example of items that can help you prepare:

1. 1. Write out a simple spreadsheet listing all your assets in one column and all your debts in the other column.
   2. Copies of paycheck stubs, or at the very least your most recent tax returns.
   3. Copies of other financial records such as retirement account statements and deeds.
   4. List your average monthly expenses or what you think it will cost you to live separate from your spouse on another sheet of paper.

The less you know about your family finances, assets, and debts, the less specific advice an attorney can give you. Thus, having a clear picture of your finances will give your attorney the information they need to provide you with the most detailed and best advice at that moment, and it may also direct your divorce planning.

If you don’t have a clear picture of your financial situation don’t be embarrassed, an experienced family law attorney can still provide you with a productive consultation and guide you through the process of becoming more informed. Schedule a consultation with an experienced family law attorney at The Reape-Rickett Law Firm by visiting our Contact US page or calling at (888) 851-1611. Don’t wait to meet with one of our family law attorneys and get the information you need to start anew.