Preparing For Your Initial Meeting With A Divorce Attorney
In Florida, the law does not require you to hire a divorce attorney. You have the right to handle your Florida divorce case alone. However, it is advisable that you avoid tackling your divorce case alone and instead retain a divorce attorney. A divorce attorney can help you in many ways. For example, a divorce attorney can ensure your rights are protected throughout the divorce process. An attorney can make sure you reach a fair divorce agreement.
If you are ready to meet with a divorce attorney to discuss your case, it is crucial that you prepare yourself adequately so you can get the most from your initial consultation meeting with the attorney. If you’re wondering how to prepare for your initial meeting with a divorce attorney, the following are some tips to help you.
Create a List of Your Assets
In nearly all divorce cases in Florida, the issue of property division must be handled. In Florida, marital property is equitably divided between spouses during a divorce. On the other hand, separate property is not divided between divorcing couples. Usually, equitable distribution means a 50/50 split, but depending on the circumstances, the Court can order an unequal division.
A divorce attorney needs to know about all of the assets that will be on the table in your divorce case, so it is best for you to take your time and prepare a list of your assets before your initial consultation with an attorney. In your list, ensure you include both financial and physical assets such as;
- Real estate
- Vehicles
- Boats
- Life insurance policies
- Artwork
- Investment accounts
Create a List of Debts
You should also create a list of the debts you have. A divorce attorney also needs to know about the debts you have. Ensure you include debts that are secured and those that are unsecured.
Think About Your Goals and Interests
Before meeting with a divorce attorney for the first time, you should think about what exactly you want out of the divorce process. It is crucial that you think about your goals and interests, and priorities. For example, which marital assets would you wish to keep? What are your priorities in regards to time-sharing and visitation? A divorce attorney can only advise you accordingly if they know your goals and interests.
As you think about your goals and interests, try anticipating your spouse’s goals and interests as well.
Gather Relevant Documents
To get the most from your consultation meeting with a divorce attorney, you should gather and bring all relevant documents to the meeting. The documents you need to collect will depend entirely on the specifics of your case. For example, if you have a child and the issue of child support will need to be tackled, you will want to gather, among others, the most recent pay stubs for you and your spouse and the latest tax returns.
Prepare Questions
Finally, prepare a list of questions before your initial consultation with a divorce attorney. Writing questions down before your meeting will ensure that you don’t forget to ask important questions during the meeting. Remember, the mind can forget. With questions written down, you can be sure all your concerns will be addressed during your initial consultation meeting with a divorce attorney.
Contact a Fort Lauderdale Divorce Attorney
Do you need a divorce attorney in Florida? Contact our skilled Fort Lauderdale divorce attorneys at Joyce A. Julian. P.A.
Source:
leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0061/Sections/0061.075.html
