What to Ask During Your First Meeting with a Divorce Attorney

Whether your spouse has filed for divorce or you are considering divorce, speaking with a reputable Illinois divorce attorney should be one of your first steps. You may be experiencing a range of emotions at this time, and that’s normal. Meeting with an attorney is the first step in advocating for yourself and taking steps to plan your new life. You should spend some time preparing for this meeting and thinking about your goals. Here are some questions you should ask the Illinois divorce lawyer during your first meeting.

What Information Do You Need from Me?

Many spouses have years of unpacking to do when it comes to explaining their relationship and their reasons for divorce. There is a time and place for this, but it’s generally not during the first meeting with your attorney. Instead of spilling your guts when your time with the attorney is likely limited, let them guide the conversation. Find out what information they need from you. Focusing on the important details and what they can help you with will save both time and money. 

What Can I Do to Decrease My Divorce Expenses?

Unfortunately, the reality is that divorce can be expensive. Trying to get a bargain divorce can end in disaster. However, talking with your Illinois divorce attorney upon your initial meeting about what you can do to decrease your legal costs is a wise move. They can talk to you about how to make your divorce settlement more efficient and cost-effective. In general, the more you and your soon-to-be ex-spouse can agree on and negotiate, the better. 

What is the Illinois Divorce Process Like?

Even though no two divorces are the same, they generally follow a similar process. Your Illinois divorce lawyer should be able to evaluate your specific circumstances and tell you what to expect during your own divorce process. Generally, the process includes:

• Filing a petition for the dissolution of marriage
• Addressing temporary orders for spousal maintenance and parental responsibilities
• Reaching a settlement for permanent orders and the division of assets or going to court if necessary
• Having the divorce finalized by a judge

Your attorney can also tell you how long you can expect each step of the process to take. 

What Should I Do Next?

Finally, ask your Illinois divorce lawyer what steps you need to take next. It’s likely time for you to make some decisions. Do you need to hire an attorney right away because your spouse has already filed for divorce? Are you the spouse considering divorce, and if so, do you need some time to think about what you want to do? Talk with the lawyer about these things. They will provide you with a contract and a requested retainer amount to secure their services when you are ready.

Schedule Your Consultation with an Illinois Divorce Attorney Today

The sooner you can meet with an experienced Illinois divorce lawyer, the more informed you will be to make critical decisions about your divorce. Contact the Goodman Law Firm today to receive your confidential divorce consultation.