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The Importance of Preparation During the Divorce Process

You can make the evaluation process for your divorce attorney easier by being prepared for your first meeting. Although many of the details of your divorce will be worked out as your case progresses, having the following questions answered before you meet with a divorce lawyer may help resolve the most difficult issues quickly:

1. Will you or your spouse contest the divorce? Specifically, do you and your spouse disagree regarding the division of marital property, child custody and visitation, etc.? Does your spouse know that you are filing for divorce?

2. Have you and your spouse reached any agreements regarding custody and financial support of your children? Who will provide health insurance coverage for your children?

3. What community property will need to be divided? The more detailed information you can provide, it is less likely complications will arise when the time comes to decide how property will be divided.

4. Will you or your spouse be keeping the family home? Or will you sell the home after the divorce?

5. How will you and your spouse divide your other community property (For example, your furniture, vehicles, electronics, personal items, checking and savings account balances, and retirement plans)?

6. How will you and your spouse divide your community debt and liabilities (For example, your mortgage, car loans, and credit card balances)?

7. Is there any chance that your spouse has hidden or will attempt to hide community property?

8. Is there any history of violence by your spouse against you or your children?

Once your attorney has filed your divorce petition, your participation is still required. Indeed, your attorney will need additional information and documents as your case progresses, so you must remain responsive and prepared when your attorney contacts you. Since courts require attorneys to file and exchange information by strict deadlines, you should never wait until the last minute to compile information and documents requested by your attorney. The risk of mistakes and oversights decreases significantly if you and your attorney exchange information freely and well before any court-mandated deadlines.

The Dallas divorce attorneys at the law firm of Reed & Riordan, PLLC have experience in representing clients who are considering divorce, whether it is contested or uncontested. Contact one of our knowledgeable Dallas divorce lawyers today at 214.570.9555 or 888.229.8985 to answer your questions about what to expect when filing for divorce.

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