Scheduling an appointment for a divorce attorney consultation is not an easy task. No matter how long you have considered divorce as a viable option, once you meet with an attorney your private thoughts become part of your reality. In order to get the maximum benefit, spend time preparing for your first meeting with a divorce attorney. Knowing exactly what you want to ask in advance will help you avoid forgetting to inquire about information that is relevant to your situation.  Though most experienced attorneys provide new clients with basic details needed to get their cases started, doing your own preparation is highly recommended.

Have Realistic Expectations

During your first meeting with an attorney, make sure you do not have any unrealistic expectations. The attorney you meet with will want to know basic details about your marriage and whether or not you expect your spouse to disagree with you on key issues. Do not expect your attorney to give you a firm time frame for the divorce process or a guaranteed outcome.  Until your attorney has had time to go over a list of your marital assets, reviewed both parties’ income information, and talked to your spouse or his or her attorney, your attorney will be unable to predict an outcome. At your first meeting you and your attorney will exchange basic information so do not arrive expecting to prepare a divorce settlement the same day.

Know What You Can Afford

Cost is the primary concern for most people visiting a divorce attorney for the first time.  Even though a divorce is one of the most expensive processes an adult can expect to go through, a large number of adults are completely unprepared to discuss divorce costs. When you arrive at the attorney’s office, have an idea of how much money you are prepared to pay and brainstorm ideas to raise money if necessary. Do not expect your spouse to absorb the costs, and though some divorce attorneys will offer payment plans, it is normal to pay a sizeable retainer upfront.  Once your attorney knows how much you can afford to pay and when you can afford to pay it, he or she can let you know when he or she should be able to begin working on your case.

Find Out Who You Will be Working With

Your prospective divorce attorney is not the only person you will be dealing with during your divorce process, so it is important to pay attention to the rest of the partners and the office staff at the lawyer’s firm. It is not unusual for attorneys to have clients work closely with legal secretaries and paralegals to complete forms or review documents. Also, if you are retaining an attorney with partners, you may work with one of those partners if your case goes before a judge at a time when the attorney you met with is unavailable. Ask your attorney about those colleagues and staff during your first meeting so that you are aware of the professional history and track records of all the people you may work with in the future.

Talk to an Attorney

If you or someone you know is considering getting a divorce, it is important that a meeting with a qualified divorce attorney is scheduled as soon as possible. The aggressive attorneys at Vayman & Teitelbaum are dedicated to providing our clients with the representation they deserve.  Contact us today to schedule a consultation at one of our Atlanta metro area locations.