What Documents should You bring to the Initial Consultation?

You have scheduled an initial consultation with a family law attorney and want to facilitate the best possible assessment. The best way to prepare for the initial consultation is to make a list of questions and bring copies of relevant documents for the attorney to review.

Below is a list of recommended documents:

1. Pleadings and any court filings especially if a hearing is pending – This information will help the attorney identify contested issues and counsel on strategy
2. Financial documents (ie. latest paycheck stubs for both parties if working; last 3 years of tax returns; social security earnings history; basic financial statements; recent loan applications; bank account statements) – The attorney will not be able to review your full financial situation during the initial meeting but having the most important financial information available will help the attorney identify the amount of work needed to move your case forward.
3. Basic timeline of events – This gives the attorney a first impression of your family history and will help to fashion strategies for moving your family through this process.
4. Payment – If you plan to keep the first meeting a secret from your spouse, make arrangements for discrete payment and find out the method of payment received by the attorney.

If you are prepared and organized, then you will have a productive first meeting with your attorney. If you are considering a legal separation or divorce, contact the Law Office of Shannon R. Loeser APC for a consultation.