Thinking About Divorce: 5 Things to Know Before Your First Consultation

Divorce is a significant life decision — one that can feel overwhelming, especially when children, finances, and long-term planning are involved. An initial consultation with a family law attorney is not a commitment to move forward, but rather an opportunity to understand your rights, explore your options, and begin shaping a path forward that reflects your family’s needs and goals.

To make the most of this important first step, consider the following questions and gather any relevant information that may help guide the conversation:

1. What Does Your Financial Picture Look Like?

   Do you have a clear understanding of your (and your spouse’s) income, assets, debts, and expenses? Sharing this information—along with documents like tax returns or account statements—can help your attorney assess property division and support issues. If your spouse handles most of the finances or you lack access to certain accounts, that’s important to mention. Your attorney can guide you on how to obtain the necessary financial details during the divorce process.

2. What Are Your Goals for Life After Divorce?

   How do you envision your life once the divorce is finalized? Whether it’s staying in the family home, protecting a business, maintaining privacy, or minimizing disruption for your children, identifying your priorities can help shape legal strategy and set realistic expectations.

3. Are There Existing Legal Documents or Agreements?

   Have you signed a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement? Are there existing estate planning documents, such as trusts or wills, that may affect your case? Bringing copies of these to your consultation allows your attorney to assess how they may impact the divorce proceedings.

4. How Will Divorce Affect Your Children?

   If you have children, what are your thoughts on timesharing, decision-making and co-parenting? Are there unique concerns or challenges you anticipate? Discussing your children’s needs during the consultation can help clarify how the divorce may affect them, what decisions will need to be made, and how to ensure those decisions support their best interests.

5. What Questions or Concerns Do You Have?

   Are there specific topics you want to address during your meeting? Writing down your questions ahead of time can help you leave the consultation feeling informed and confident about your next steps.

How We Can Help

Preparing for divorce involves important decisions that affect your family, finances, and future. Working with a knowledgeable family law attorney can help you understand your rights, explore your options, and move forward with clarity and confidence. Whether you’re ready to take the next step or simply gathering information, we’re here to offer thoughtful guidance tailored to your situation.