When confronted with the possibility of divorce and the probable need for a divorce attorney, anyone can feel confused and overwhelmed and, frankly, scared of the unknown and the uncertainty of their future.

Instead of fearing the unknown, have some idea of what to expect during the initial consultation and contact with an attorney.  You can take a deep breath and relax… an experienced Arizona divorce attorney will act professionally.  Although your marital problems may seem to you to be overwhelming, divorce attorneys are all about gathering the necessary information and seeking out ways to solve your problems.  Remember, the Family Law Firm staff is there to support you and to advocate for YOU. Through professional skill and experience, the legal staff understands what you are going through and will help you through the process.

When placing that first call to an attorney’s office, understand that what you say will be kept confidential by the receptionist, attorney, or anyone who you may have contact with.  You should have no qualms about providing information or answering questions over the telephone. In fact, in order to protect you and any of its clients, the law firm may ask questions (including your name and reason you are calling) of you before continuing in case of a potential conflict of interest.

Understand that an attorney will give you some assistance over a phone consultation, but the majority of the advice you seek may not be provided over the telephone.  It may be necessary for you to schedule an appointment in the office for a personal meeting.  Having a face-to face meeting with an attorney does not obligate you in any way, nor does it mean that you have to follow through with the firm or with your divorce, for that matter.

WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT FROM YOUR FIRST MEETING

Expect the attorney during your initial consultation to provide you with some information pertinent and important to your meeting:

• an overview of the divorce process
• information regarding matters pertaining to children
• division of your assets and liabilities
• spousal or child support (or both)
• attorneys fees and costs

In order for the attorney to provide you with a potential plan of action to proceed with a divorce, it will be necessary for the attorney to make ask a considerable amount of questions and a substantial inquiry. Remember that you need to tell the attorney the truth and to provide all necessary details.  In order to get the best representation and for the attorney to know how to proceed, the quality of advice you receive may be directly related to the information you provide and answers you give. Keep in mind that questions/answers are given knowing the attorney-client privilege is in effect. Anything you tell the attorney cannot and will not be repeated to anyone without your permission.

Some questions you should be prepared to answer will relate to children, financial matters, and some questions could be of a personal nature (in order to determine any events relative to leading up to the divorce).