What to Expect During Your First Meeting with a Divorce Lawyer

You may be nervous about meeting with a divorce lawyer for the first time — or even apprehensive to take this first step toward ending your marriage. However, an initial consultation is crucial to learn what your rights and options are and gain an understanding of the legal process. It’s also an opportunity to get to know the lawyer and their experience to determine whether they are the right choice to represent you in your case.

Here’s what you can expect during your first meeting with a divorce lawyer:

Gathering Information

The first meeting allows the lawyer to gather information about your divorce case. They will ask you questions regarding your marriage, children, and finances to determine the best course of action. They will also ask you about your employment status, income, debts, expenses, and living situation. The information they collect will help them assess your case in order to give you personalized advice.

Advising You Regarding Your Options

At your first meeting, the lawyer will discuss the options you have available. Significantly, litigation is not the only way to end a marriage. The lawyer can discuss the different types of divorce — including no-fault, fault-based, uncontested, and contested divorce — and inform you regarding the pros and cons of the alternative dispute resolution methods that are available. Depending on the facts of your case, you may be able to save time and money by using mediation, the collaborative process, or negotiation, instead of going to court.

Explaining the Legal Process

The lawyer will outline the procedural steps involved in commencing your divorce and what to expect during the legal process. They will let you know what paperwork is needed and whether you will need to attend hearings. If you share minor children with your spouse, the lawyer will address the child custody and support laws and advise how to obtain the necessary court orders. They can also explain how property is divided and whether spousal support is a possibility in your case.

Discussing Your Objectives

A good divorce lawyer will take time at the initial consultation to learn about your financial objectives and personal goals for the divorce. They will talk with you about what you hope to achieve — including your desired lifestyle post-divorce, child custody arrangements, and living situation. You should feel at ease discussing any potential concerns you have and ask questions.

Developing a Strategy

After gathering the necessary information, the lawyer will discuss the possible strategies that can be implemented in your case. The strategy may look very different in a contested case than in a divorce where the parties are amicable. Depending on your circumstances, there are a number of things you may want to accomplish before filing for divorce. The lawyer can discuss the steps you should take before commencing your case to help ensure a smooth transition to the next chapter in your life.

Assessing Whether You are Comfortable with the Lawyer

The first meeting gives both you and the lawyer the opportunity to decide whether you are a good fit and will work together. You will be sharing a lot of personal information with the lawyer you select to represent you, and it’s important to choose someone you’re comfortable with. Find out about the lawyer’s approach and how long they have been practicing.

You should also ask the lawyer questions such as:

• Have you handled cases like mine?
• Will you be handling my case or will someone else in the office?
• How often will you communicate with me about my case?
• How will you keep me updated?
• What happens if my spouse and I don’t agree on major issues?
• How can I prepare for the legal process?

In addition, ask about the lawyer’s fee structure and the amount of the initial retainer. While your lawyer cannot tell you how much your case will cost in total because there are so many variables involved, it’s essential to get an idea of the costs you can expect to incur. It’s best to prepare a list of questions before the consultation to ensure you cover the key aspects of your case.

Contact an Experienced Maryland Divorce Lawyer

Divorce can be emotionally overwhelming and legally complex. However, having an experienced divorce lawyer by your side every step of the way can make all the difference to the outcome of your case. At Strickler, Platnik & Hatfield, we provide compassionate counsel to our clients as we guide them through the divorce process. To learn more about how we can assist you with your divorce or family law matter, contact Strickler, Platnick & Hatfield to schedule a consultation.