Although you can attend your initial consultation with your divorce attorney without a single sheet of paper, the more documentation you bring the better. Providing your attorney with various documents will help them gain insight into your case. The divorce process is stressful and overwhelming. That being said, it is critical to take the right steps to maximize your chances of reaching favorable divorce terms. When divorcing, contact a qualified Rockland County Divorce & Separation Attorney who can help you work toward a favorable outcome.

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

When seeking a divorce, you should bring the following documents to your initial consultation with your divorce attorney:

  • Your marriage license. It is imperative to bring a copy of your original marriage license and certificate to your initial consultation. This will establish that you were legally married to your spouse. This is helpful as it reassures your attorney that the court can grant you a divorce. It will also help establish the length of your marriage. In some cases, if your marriage lasted 10 years or more, you may be eligible to receive a portion of your former spouse’s Social Security benefits.
  • Financial records. In some cases, the court may order one spouse to pay spousal or child support. When this is the case, you should bring any pay stubs, tax records, or employment records that can provide your attorney. This will provide proof of your income. These financial records can help determine what you are entitled to receive or obligated to pay.
  • Documents relating to marital property and separate property. One of the most contentious issues in a divorce is property distribution. New York is an equitable distribution state which means any assets acquired during the marriage will be split fairly between the divorcing couple. However, personal property is not subject to equitable distribution. Your attorney must know what is personal property so they know what should not be split. Additionally, they must know what assets are marital assets to ensure you receive a fair portion of your marital property during the division of assets.
  • Documents relating to debts. As mentioned above, New York is an equitable distribution state. This means any debts acquired during the marriage will likely be split between you and your spouse. Therefore, your attorney should know any debts you have to anticipate what you will be responsible for paying once the divorce is finalized.
  • A list of questions. Utilize this opportunity to ask your attorney any pressing questions you have regarding the divorce process. This is a chance to ask pertinent questions about your case and clarify any concerns you have about moving forward. If you do not come up with a list of questions, you may forget relevant questions. Having your questions answered could help alleviate some of the stress you may feel before entering this intricate legal process.

If a divorce is imminent, contact a determined attorney from The Law Office of Peter L. Jameson, PLLC to schedule a consultation. With years of experience, our firm will gladly answer any questions you have regarding your case and the divorce process.