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What documents should I take to my initial consultation with a divorce attorney?

One of the first steps in dissolving your marriage is scheduling a consultation with a divorce attorney. Although you can attend your initial divorce consultation without paperwork, providing them with certain documents during this meeting is in your best interest. This will allow them to gain insight into your case and provide you with all the information necessary to proceed with this legal process. If a divorce is imminent, contact a determined Ocean County Divorce Attorney who can help you navigate this complex legal process. Keep reading to learn what documents to bring to an initial consultation with a divorce attorney.

What documents should I bring to an initial consultation with a divorce attorney?

Once you have scheduled a consultation with a divorce attorney, the next step to increase your chances of reaching favorable divorce conditions is to gather relevant documents. The more documentation you bring, the better, as it will provide your attorney with a better understanding of how they can effectively represent you. You should bring the following documents to your initial consultation:

A copy of your marriage license

When divorcing, you must provide your attorney with a copy of your marriage certificate. This will verify that you and your spouse are legally married. This will ensure that they can help you legally dissolve your marriage.

Documents relating to marital and separate property

The division of assets is one of the most contentious issues couples face when divorcing. That said, it is beneficial to bring documents outlining which assets are considered marital and separate property. Documents such as a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement would suffice as these legal contracts stipulate who gets what in the divorce. This type of paperwork is necessary to protect your hard-earned assets. Separate property is not subject to equitable distribution. Therefore, your attorney must know what assets should not be split with your former spouse during property division.

Financial records

It is critical to bring any documents, such as tax returns or pay stubs, that can provide your attorney with proof of your income. The court will likely ask for employment records when determining child and spousal support orders. Providing your attorney with these financial records can help your attorney decide whether or not you are obligated to pay or entitled to receive child or spousal support.

A list of relevant questions

Individuals often forget pertinent questions regarding their divorce. To avoid this, you should bring a list of relevant questions. This way you can ensure all of your questions regarding the divorce are answered.

If you are seeking a divorce, contact a seasoned Ocean County divorce attorney from the Law Office of Sarina Gianna, LLC, today to schedule a consultation. Our firm is committed to guiding our clients through the intricate divorce process to help them achieve the best possible outcome.