There is no question that divorce proceedings can be extremely challenging. The mental, emotional, and financial strain caused by a separation is exhausting for all parties involved. Having skilled and experienced representation in your corner can make all the difference, especially if litigation becomes a foregone conclusion. Once you’ve retained a counselor that fits your needs, it will be time for your first full consultation. While you may have had earlier discussions, your first case evaluation requires thorough preparation. Arming your attorney with as much information as possible is to your advantage – no matter how embarrassing or potentially incriminating. Make the most out of your first divorce consultation in Fresno.
First, write down any questions you may have concerning the process. This is most certainly a case of “there are no dumb questions.” You cannot be expected to understand all the legal aspects of your divorce, just as your attorney cannot possibly know all the intimate details of your marriage. This “discovery” period allows you both to get a look at the big picture. The more informed you are, the more comfortable you will be as the proceedings move forward. So, bring all of your questions and don’t be afraid to ask them.
While you may have already provided your attorney with key pieces of information about yourself – such as phone and address – there is much more that will be explored. This will probably require a bit of collecting and organizing on your part. Again, the more prepared you are for the consultation the easier it will be to move your case along. Some of the documentation your attorney will more than likely request will include:
- Birth Certificate
- Social Security Number
- Driver’s License
- Marriage Certificates (both current and prior marriages)
- Prenuptial Agreements
- Copies of tax returns (single or joint)
- Name of employer (both yours and your spouse’s)
- Bank statements, account numbers, stocks, pensions, and investment information
- Real estate documentation (deeds, mortgage policy, etc.)
- Listing of jewelry, vehicles, artwork, and other items of value
Additionally, giving your attorney an overview of your marriage and all the events that led up to your decision to seek a divorce can be incredibly helpful. Put as much as you can into writing and bring it along with you to the consultation. Finally, remember your meeting is held in the strictest of confidence. Any information discussed is confidential and considered part of the attorney / client privilege. For additional information, or to schedule a consultation, call
(559)222-4891, the Law Office of Rick D. Banks at your earliest convenience.
