If you have never met with an attorney before, your initial meeting to discuss divorce (whether to file or if your spouse has already filed) can be daunting, nerve-wracking, confusing … you name it.  It is important to keep in mind that attorneys are people too, and they want to help you meet your legal goals, whether that is to settle a dispute, win a case, or just have some questions answered.  At an initial consultation you should expect to following things to happen:

  • Get to know your attorney.  It is important that your attorney communicates with you in a way that you understand and feel comfortable with.  The attorney-client relationship is exactly that, a relationship.  It is important to retain an attorney that you feel comfortable talking to, and is aligned with your legal needs, goals, and objectives.
  • Explain your situation.  It is important that you explain why you are seeking legal counsel and what your concerns and questions are.  This way, the attorney can get a good feel for your situation and also share with you his or her insight into your legal matter. No two divorces are the same, and every family is different.
  • Discuss the next steps following the initial consultation.  What if you do want to retain the attorney?  You will want to know the attorney’s fees and retainer requirement, how soon they can get started on your case, what else they might need from you to get started, and what their initial plan of action is.

When meeting with an attorney for the first time, it is important to keep in mind that the meeting is just as much an opportunity for the attorney to assess your case as it is for YOU to assess the attorney.  You should be thinking about whether the attorney is a good fit for you.  No two attorneys are created equal, and with divorces, you will likely be working with the attorney for more than just a few months, so it is important you can work well together.

This blog post was written by attorney Lori B. Schmeltzer, at Schmeltzer Law, and is not intended as legal advice nor does it create an attorney-client relationship.  If you have questions or concerns specific to you, you are encouraged to seek qualified legal counsel.

Lori B. Schmeltzer

Schmeltzer Law PLLC

www.schmeltzerlaw.com

[email protected]

(231)642-5225