Questions to Ask Family Lawyers in Divorce Consultations
Meeting an attorney to discuss divorce can be nerve-wracking and intimidating, to say the least. Luckily, the purpose of the initial consultation is to provide you with information about your options and the divorce process.
Becoming flustered and forgetting a question can be costly. To avoid that, make a written list of questions to ask before the meeting.
Here are a few questions that you may want to ask family lawyers in Northern Virginia at your initial consult.
What Is Your Fee Structure?
Do not be afraid to ask how your lawyer will be paid.
Unfortunately, divorce can sometimes take years, and you need to know how to prepare for the financial impact of the process.
How Long Will It Take to Finalize My Divorce?
While family lawyers in Northern Virginia cannot predict exactly how long a divorce will take, they should be able to give you an idea based on a variety of paths. A general timeline can help you plan for what’s to come in the months or years ahead.
Even “simple divorce cases” can be slowed down by state laws and required procedures. Prepare yourself for the duration of the process, and ask how long each step should take so that you can plan around other obligations.
What Potential Is There for Me to Receive/Pay Alimony?
State laws govern the issue of alimony in divorce. In your initial consultation, you will want to ask whether you or your spouse can seek alimony.
An attorney should be able to give you an opinion as to whether paying or receiving alimony is a possibility in light of your particular situation.
What Is the Likelihood I Will Obtain Custody of My Children?
Often, the best way to resolve custody is by mutual agreement between the parents.
However, if you and your spouse cannot agree on these arrangements, you may need to go to court for a resolution. Use your initial consultation to learn what factors judges consider in custody cases.
Your family lawyers in Northern Virginia can recommend mediation to avoid court proceedings.
They can also make recommendations on what’s best to concede or challenge regarding child custody.
How Are Marital Assets Split?
Each state has its own set of laws regarding the distribution of property in divorce. As an example, states define what is and what is not marital property.
Your prospective attorney should be able to give you sound advice regarding the rules for property division. This will clear up contradictions you may have heard from friends and family members.
Family Lawyers in Northern Virginia
When seeking a divorce lawyer, choose a law firm that specializes in prioritizing the health of your family.
Our philosophy is that clients are entitled to dignity, trust and support by their family lawyers during this difficult stage of life.
For more information, click here or call 703.934.1480 to schedule an initial consultation.