Family court statistics found that about 2.1 million cases are received by U.S. family courts every year, as per Zipdo. And family-related issues that end up in the legal department need to be taken seriously and with focus. And to ensure that you don’t lose track of your objective, you must pay attention to your first consultation.
The purpose of this first meeting is to give you advice, direction, and confidence. What lawyers usually look at during the consultation are the most important parts of your case. And most importantly, how the law applies to your case.
During the consultation, you are free to ask questions if you have concerns. This is also a way for the lawyers to see where your interests lie. You can ask about your concerns, like any disadvantages of co-parenting, or how different parenting styles or communication problems may affect your child’s health.
Here are the things you can expect in your first family law consultation to gear you up on the proceedings ahead.
Preparing for Your Consultation: Essential Documents to Bring
Don’t be nervous about your first meeting with a family law attorney. As this is a first consultation, have everything you need ready and ask about the case you wish to pursue. Make sure you have all the necessary documents like marriage certificates, divorce papers, custody agreements, and all that stuff.
Financial records should be with you at your first meeting with a lawyer. Pay stubs, tax returns, bank statements, etc. These records will clarify things while aiding your lawyer to understand you better.
Remember to write down every question that pops into your mind. In case you forget, you will want them answered.
Understanding the Role of Your Family Law Attorney
The complicated laws that work on the family can be an anxiety-inducing experience for just about anyone.
Family law constitutes many matters that can be taxing and emotionally exhausting. There is divorce, custody issues and estate division. During these proceedings, your family lawyer will explain your rights and possible options so you can make informed decisions, says a family law attorney in West Columbia.
Lawyers are not just experts in law but also your support during the difficult process of your case. As such, part of the tasks of your lawyer is gathering information and documents necessary for your case. They are the ones who can help you strategize about handling your case. If necessary, they will also negotiate on your behalf.
Their presence is already a great support as you face this legal battle. And most of all, they will fight for your best interests so you can walk the path that will benefit you and your family.
Common Questions to Anticipate
It is especially advantageous to go into this interview with a query-ridden yet clear mind.
- You can start to ask the lawyer about his or her training and experience with situations like yours.
- You may ask how they typically deal with situations like yours. What are the strategies they deem successful?
- Discuss fees and methods of billing up front. This way, you can be on equal financial footing with one another.
- You need to anticipate the timeline of the proceedings. Discuss them with your attorney so you can plan accordingly. Communication should also be taken into consideration. Make sure you know how often you might expect updates about your case.
Think of your first consultation as the start of a relationship. As your case proceeds, this is the length of your relationship with your family lawyer.
Discussing Your Goals and Concerns
This is the moment that you want to share what is troubling you on your mind and what you want to achieve. Everything in the law, custody, divorce, or support should be about setting you completely free to express how you feel, giving your attorney opportunities to look at the problem from your point of view. The solution should be guided by whatever you weigh most heavily in your considerations. You can consider this place a safe haven for the expression of your thoughts, so it is essential never to haunt yourself with worry.
Next Steps After Your Consultation
Having communicated your goals and concerns, it is now time to consider the subsequent steps in your family law itinerary. Your attorney is bound to list out possible strategies fit for your case. This is when you get to act on your part as the client by asking questions or clarifying anything at all.
Make sure all necessary documents are at hand: financial statements, prior agreements or anything that might be supportive of your cause- stay organized because it is going to maximize your attorney’s ability to represent you.
Determine with your attorney how you would like to be communicating. When in some fundamental developments, preserving the feeling of being involved through the entire process tends to slip away. The lawyer went down the road with you, guiding you all the way, letting loose, and feeling completely empowered in your choices.
