What Happens at My First Consultation with a Family Law Attorney?
At your first consultation with a family law attorney, you will explore the legal problem you’re facing. This means that the more information you can share, the more productive the consultation is likely to be. While part of the meeting will focus on your description of what you’re up against, the documentation you provide at this juncture can help move your case effectively and efficiently forward. Your first consultation is an important step in the process, and the experienced Marlton, NJ, family law attorneys at Weinberg, Kaplan, & Smith P.A., are ready to help.
Common Family Law Concerns
Every family law case is specific to the circumstances at hand, but primary categories include all the following:
- Divorce, the terms of divorce, and post-decree modifications
- Child custody arrangements outside of divorce
- Domestic abuse
- Cases involving child protection
What to Bring Along
While your case will be unique to you, there are specific sources of information that tend to apply across all family law cases.
Identifying Information
To begin, you’ll need to share identifying information about yourself and your minor children, such as in a divorce or child custody case. You should have a government-issued ID with you and should provide your complete contact information, including your email and physical addresses, along with your phone numbers. When it comes to your kids, bringing copies of their birth certificates, school records, and receipts regarding child-related expenses is advised.
Financial Documents
If you’re facing a divorce or are pursuing a term modification regarding child support or alimony, you’ll need to provide a considerable amount of financial documentation. This can include all the following:
- Your tax returns for the last three years
- Your employment records and your three most recent paystubs
- Statements that reflect your retirement accounts
- Copies of your life insurance policies
- Household bills
- Records of your debts, including credit card bills and documentation regarding loans
- Your financial portfolio, including stocks and bonds, investments, and beyond
- Your mortgage papers
- A list of all other assets of significance
Divorce and divorce-related matters often hinge on the financials, and the more thorough you are with this documentation, the better protected your financial rights are likely to be.
Rounding Things Out
From here, it’s a good idea to jot down all your questions and bring them with you. Also, bring along any prior legal documents related to the case, such as your divorce papers if you are seeking a term modification. Finally, bringing copies of the relevant texts, voicemails, notes, and electronic messages between you and your divorcing spouse – or the other party involved – can also help.
Turn to an Experienced Marlton Family Law Lawyer for the Help You Need
The formidable Marlton, NJ, family law attorneys at Weinberg, Kaplan, & Smith P.A. are committed to protecting your parental and financial rights from the outset. This includes getting as much accomplished during your initial consultation as possible. We are here to help, so please don’t delay reaching out by contacting or calling us at 856-795-9400 today.