Your first meeting with a divorce lawyer is a huge move, and it is also a crucial one as well. An accomplished family law attorney will save you time and money, and provide you with some peace of mind. Here are a few things to know and plan for during your initial consultation:
What Happens During a Divorce Attorney’s Initial Consultation?
Your initial consultation will allow you to get to know the attorney and ask questions. Most people do not plan on getting divorced before they marry, so when it does happen, they may feel unprepared and unequipped for the process. As a potential client, you want to talk openly with your attorney and be confident of his or her abilities.
Regardless of where you are in the process of divorce, be ready to discuss details in the initial consultation. Maybe this is your first divorce, and you will have to begin at the beginning. Or maybe you and your spouse have already reached agreements on several issues, which is always helpful. During that initial meeting, your attorney should lay out the divorce process for you so you know what to expect in the coming weeks and months.
How to Prepare for a Consultation with a Divorce Attorney
Make a list of questions ahead of time. This will make the appointment more efficient and you will be less likely to forget something important.
During a consultation, you may also ask your attorney the following questions:
- Aside from divorce and family law, what other types of cases do you handle?
- What percentage of your practice is devoted to family law?
- How long have you been working as a divorce lawyer in Colorado?
- How do you prorate your time and what is your hourly rate?
- How much of a retainer is required and what is the minimum that is required to be kept in the client trust account?
- What is the most effective method of communicating my questions when they arise?
- How do judges decide on parenting time?
- How is child support calculated?
- Will I be required to pay, or am I entitled to, spousal support?
- What will happen to our mutual property and finances?
- What will happen to our separate property?
Request a Consultation with a Divorce Lawyer in Colorado.
When you are going through a divorce, it’s natural to want to get it over with as soon as possible. Working with a seasoned family law attorney will ensure that your needs are met during this difficult time. Make the first move by scheduling an appointment.