One of the first steps people take when thinking about a divorce is to talk with an attorney. Most attorneys offer free initial consultations where they can learn about your personal situation and discuss your options with you. This provides you with an opportunity to learn more about the New Jersey divorce process, so you want to be prepared in order to get the most out of your consultation. Here are 6 steps to prepare you:
- Know your options. Not every divorce has to be contentious and end up in court. In fact, it’s better for you financially and emotionally to have your split handled through negotiation or mediation. You should know your options for a New Jersey divorce so you can discuss your best strategy.
- Know your issues. Every marriage is different and so is every divorce; however, there are some common issues most divorces share, including alimony, child support, child custody, and property division.
- Know your finances. You will need to give the attorney an idea of your financial situation, including jointly owned property and any other assets that will need to be part of a property settlement discussion.
- Know what you want. Think about what matters most to you in your divorce while realizing that every divorce involves some compromises.
- Communicate any special circumstances. To provide useful advice, your attorney will need to know any special circumstances that may apply to your divorce. Do you think your spouse is hiding assets? Has there been any history of domestic violence? List whatever you think is relevant to share with the attorney.
- Ask questions. You will find it helpful if you prepare a list of questions for your attorney prior to your consultation. You will want to know about the attorney’s experience in family law, how the law firm operates (billing practices, client communication, etc.), how your case will proceed, and probably more.
It is important that you do not wait too long to retain an attorney when you are facing a family law issue. Delays can cost you valuable legal rights, and you want to make sure that you have the advice and support you need to make the best decisions for you and your family long after the divorce settlement is reached. Contact us today for your free consultation.
