3 Things to Know Before You Meet with a Divorce Attorney

Many of my clients come to me and are nervous about meeting with me, a divorce attorney.  This tends to come from not being sure what to expect from meeting with a divorce attorney.  As I've said before, it is important you at least meet with a divorce attorney very early on in the process (or better yet, BEFORE you begin the process).  Find out more about that, here

If you are considering divorce, here's a few things to know before you meet with an attorney and what to expect from that meeting.  Keep in mind, however, each attorney operates slightly differently and each case is unique so you're initial meeting may vary to some degree.

1.  Be ready to tell your story.
When I first meet with a potential client, it is important that I gather as much information as possible.  Don't worry about having every detail down pat but do go into the meeting knowing the basics of how you came into the marriage and how the marriage has changed, what has caused you to consider divorce, etc.

2.  Bring some questions.
We, attorneys as a whole, want to be helpful.  Bring some questions that you have to your initial meeting. Make a list of questions you have about the process, the attorney and your specific situation.  We will typically do our best to answer your questions that you bring to us.  However, you should know that each divorce case is different, unique and in some way complicated.  As a result of that, some of the answers to your questions may not be clear at the initial meeting; the attorney may need to research the law or may need some additional information from you before being able to provide you a complete answer.

3.  Remember confidentiality. 
Some people are nervous about meeting with an attorney because they are providing that attorney very personal, intimate information about their lives.  Remember that your meeting with the attorney, even if you decide not to retain that attorney, is confidential and cannot be shared with anyone else at any time.  Also remember that divorce attorneys handle a lot of divorce cases.  We are in the business of protecting you, not judging you.  After considering these things, if you still do not feel comfortable being honest and providing that information to an attorney, that attorney may not be the right fit for you.  

At the conclusion of your initial consultation, the decision rests in your hands.  If you do not feel comfortable or for any reason are hesitant about retaining that attorney, you are under no obligation to hire them.  Even if you are comfortable and feel positively about the meeting, you may still want to meet with other attorneys to determine which attorney is the best fit. 

If you are contemplating divorce or are currently involved in a divorce or custody case and would like a consultation, please contact us at (804) 447-0146 or clbaudean@baudeanlaw.com.