When you are considering divorce, you may have questions about how the law applies to you, or how the changes may affect your family’s well being (financial or otherwise). During this time, it is advisable to consult with an experienced and knowledgeable attorney you can trust. Once you have found an attorney, there are several things you can do to help your attorney do his or her best for you. This article explores how you can prepare for your first meeting with a divorce attorney.
Familiarize Yourself with the Law
The first thing you can do to prepare for your first meeting with a divorce attorney is briefly familiarize yourself with Oklahoma divorce laws. Doing so will enable you and your attorney to communicate better and empower you to better understand issues pertaining to your divorce. You can bring yourself up to speed by browsing for information through:
- Your attorney’s website.
- Websites of organizations devoted to divorce and family issues.
- The local court’s website, which may have step-by-step information on how to file for divorce.
- Other state websites that offer divorce support, answer frequently asked questions and offer legal information pertaining to divorce.
- Any books, pamphlets or other resources that offer information on divorce in Oklahoma.
Gather Documents
The next thing you should do to prepare for your first meeting is to gather any items or documents your attorney requests, or anything you think may be helpful to your attorney in assessing your case. These documents may include financial records such as bank statements, 401k statements, mortgage documents and your car payment history.
If a lawsuit has already been filed, your attorney will want to see the pleadings from that case, which will include any complaints, answers and counterclaims filed, as well as any orders that have been generated by the court since the lawsuit was initiated.
If you have already received a divorce decree or separation agreement and you have issues concerning your custody order or divorce settlement, your attorney will want to see those documents as well.
Prepare Your Questions
Prepare any questions you may have for your attorney in advance. You might inquire about:
- Your attorney’s legal experience.
- Legal fee arrangements.
- The divorce process and how long it may take.
- What you will be expected to do.
- How often you will be in contact with your attorney and by what method.
In fact, prepare any questions you have regarding how your attorney can assist you and write them down so you won’t forget them once you meet.
Be Ready to Talk
Last but not least, you should prepare to tell your story and to discuss, in some detail, the history of your relationship with your spouse. Be honest, as it is important for your attorney to get a clear and honest picture of your relationship and what you need, require and desire to obtain from your divorce.
No Cost Consultation: Oklahoma City Divorce Lawyer
Whether you envision a quick, easy divorce or you are preparing for a difficult, high-conflict divorce, a skilled Oklahoma City divorce lawyer can provide the expertise you need to move your life toward a more stable future. The Divorce Law Office of Oklahoma City offers initial consultations at no cost. Discover how our knowledgeable divorce attorney can help you through a difficult time. For a initial consultation with a reliable Oklahoma City divorce lawyer, call (405) 880-8222 today. If you prefer e-mail, send us your question using the “Ask the Lawyer” form at the right side of this page.
Leave a Reply