What to Bring to Your Consultation with a Divorce Lawyer

 Posted on February 12, 2020 in Family Law

If you are getting a divorce, you will likely want to speak to a divorce lawyer that can help with your case. Most divorce lawyers in Illinois will offer a free consultation during which you and the attorney will discuss your case and the lawyer will provide the legal options you have to get a fair settlement.

Preparing for these consultations can be somewhat confusing, particularly if you have never been through the divorce process before. To make it easier, below is a list of things you should bring with you that will provide the attorney with more insight into your case, and help you determine if the lawyer is right for your case.

A List of Questions

You likely have a lot of questions about the divorce process. As you think of these questions, you should write them down so you do not forget to ask the lawyer about them during your meeting. You should also ask the lawyer some questions about the attorney’s caseload, their experience, and if they will be handling your case, or if a paralegal or associate will. All of these are important and will help you better understand the process and if you want to work with a certain attorney.

Proof of Income

Any attorney you work with will need to know certain facts about your income. They will use this information to advise you on terms such as spousal maintenance, property division, and child support if you end up paying it. To give them an accurate idea of your financial situation, try to bring in at least three months’ worth of pay stubs for both you and your spouse. Tax returns can provide an even clearer picture of your finances, particularly if you and your spouse filed joint tax returns.

Legal Documents

During the course of your marriage, you likely collected many different types of legal documents. These may include premarital agreements, birth certificates of any children, separation agreements, Social Security cards and passports for you and your children, and the birth certificates for any children born during the marriage. This paperwork can help your attorney better understand your situation, the events that happened during your marriage, and how long your divorce may take.

Evidence Against Your Spouse

Illinois is a no-fault divorce state, which means you do not have to prove grounds of fault. However, if your spouse was engaged in wrongdoing during the marriage, such as having an affair, evidence can prove this and can help with your case. For example, social media posts or invoices for purchases that you were not aware of may prove an affair. A judge may take this into consideration when deciding on matters such as property division, and a lawyer should know about it beforehand so they can prepare the best case possible for you.

Ready for Your Consultation? Call Our Illinois Divorce Lawyers

Going through a divorce is never easy, but our skilled Hinsdale divorce lawyers at the Law Firm of Martoccio & Martoccio can help. During your free consultation, we will fully review all the facts of your case and advise you of your legal options. If you decide we are a good fit, we will work hard on your case to get you a fair settlement as quickly as possible. Call us today at 630-920-8855 to schedule a meeting with one of our attorneys.

Source:

http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/documents/075000050k504.htm