5 Things You Need To Do Before Talking To A Divorce Attorney
Divorce is not something that people expect to go through when they get married; however, it is an emotional and financial rollercoaster when you do experience it. If you marriage is not working out, then you need to get in touch with an experience divorce lawyer to discuss your options. Before you contact an attorney, though, you need to make sure you are prepared. There are a few things that you need to do fire, including the following:
1. Research Local Lawyers.
You first step is to do some homework on divorce attorneys in your area. You don't just want to do a Google search or grab the phone book and go to the first lawyer that you find. You want to find a reputable, knowledgeable, experienced and capable lawyer to take care of your case. Ask friends, family and co-workers who have been through a divorce who they used and if they were happy with them. You can also check out online reviews of attorneys.
2. Gather Your Financial Information.
Before going to a meeting with an attorney, you need to gather all of your financial documents, as your attorney will need this information. This information will be used in the determination of your potential divorce settlement as well as who will be responsible for paying what debt. So, make sure that you gather bank statements, credit card statements, mortgage information, breakdown of assets, etc.
3. Make Copies of Pre- or Post-Nuptial Agreements.
If you and your spouse signed a pre- or post-nuptial agreement, make sure to make a copy of it and take it to your lawyer. These types of agreements will often dictate a lot of what will happen after the dissolution of your marriage, including the type of and how much of a settlement (if any) you will be entitled to.
4. Gather Evidence for Why Your Marriage Is Over.
Unless you and your spouse are parting ways amicably, it is important that you start gathering evidence as to why you are ending your marriage. For example, if your spouse is cheating, try to get pictures of your spouse in the act because it could have a direct impact on the divorce settlement.
5. Bring All Legal Documents.
If you have previously signed papers for a legal separation or your spouse has already gotten his or her own lawyer and sent divorce papers, make sure to bring these legal documents to your lawyer. Your attorney needs to look over any documents that have been sent to you to see what you are being asked to do or sign and/or what you have already agreed to.
For more tips, reach out to an attorney at firms like Richards & Minore, P.C.
