What to Bring to Your First Attorney Meeting

It is not uncommon for clients to have a number of questions concerning the legal process, pleadings, case outcome, etc. It is helpful for a client to make notes of their thoughts or questions and to bring them to attorney-client meetings. By grouping these thoughts and questions in one place, they can be easily addressed, rather than overlooked or forgotten.

First, it is important that you express your concerns and desires regarding your case to your attorney. Otherwise, you and your attorney may be working toward different goals. Second, share with your attorney what caused your relationship to deteriorate. Was there adultery, abuse, or abandonment? It is important to share the cause of the breakup with your attorney because this can influence an attorney's review of several key aspects of your case.

In addition to providing your attorney with personal information, it is also essential to provide them with the details concerning your relationship. When and where did you get married? Did you sign a prenuptial agreement? Have either of you been married before? When did you and your spouse separate? Are you still living in the same household? Provide your attorney with all of this information, including any supporting documentation.

Gather as much personal data about you, your spouse, and your children as you can, and share all of this information with your attorney. Write down your names, home and work addresses and telephone numbers, ages and places of birth, Social Security Numbers, and income(s).

Your lawyer will need to know if you were ever a victim or a perpetrator of abuse. Additionally, your attorney will need to know whether you or your spouse ever committed adultery during your marriage. Despite the fear you may have revealing this information, your silence could prevent your lawyer from doing his or her job in representing you.

Specifically, knowing about any abuse will allow your attorney to acquire orders of protection for you and your children. Informing your attorney of any adultery, especially if committed by your spouse, will allow your attorney to begin collecting evidence which may be used at trial. If you have photos, audio or audio-visual recordings, or any type of correspondence which substantiates the adultery or abuse, make sure to bring this evidence to your attorney.

Do you have children, and are there issues which will involve children such as custody, visitation, or child support? If you and your spouse had children during the marriage, it is important to discuss with your attorney your ideal plan concerning the custody of your children and any child support that you anticipate.

Do you believe you have property which should be considered separate property (such as property you owned prior to the marriage, was gifted to you during the course of the marriage, or you inherited) and should not be divided as part of the divorce? If so, it is important to identify this type of property as soon as possible and begin preparing the relevant documents to substantiate your claim.