Why is a divorce consultation such an important step? Once you’ve made the difficult decision to file for divorce, the next step is to hire a lawyer. There are many qualified and competent law firms that handle divorce cases in Colorado. How do you go about finding the best lawyer for your situation—one that will understand both your immediate concerns and your hopes for the future? One that is ready to fight for an equitable outcome for you and your children?
Divorce is unique in that it is a legal matter, but it is also a major life event. The dissolution of a marriage is more than just paperwork and court dates. Even under the very best circumstances, a divorce is emotional and difficult. A divorce is an ending, but it is also the beginning of your future. You need the right lawyer to stand by your side throughout the process.
Before you hire us, we ask that you meet with us during a complimentary consultation. We believe that’s the best way to see if we’re a good fit for your case or not. While we can handle divorces throughout Colorado, most of our clients are in Arapahoe County and Douglas County. This focus has allowed us to become familiar with the local judges and court systems.
To make the most of your consultation with us, here are tips to prepare:
1. Share a Brief Overview of Your Situation
When you schedule your complimentary consultation, we set aside 30 minutes to discuss your unique situation.
We value your time and want you to benefit from this meeting. Depending on your circumstances, we may ask you questions like:
- What are your short-term and long-term goals for your children?
- Do you have any immediate financial needs and concerns?
- Are you worried about your spouse’s ability to parent (erratic behavior, unreliable, substance abuse)?
- Are you currently employed outside of the home?
- Estimated earnings for you and your spouse
Once we get a baseline of your situation, we’ll talk further about pertinent issues like co-parenting options, an equitable division of assets, spousal support, and child support.
2. Gather Documents Ahead of Time
Here is some information you will need to gather and bring with you:
- The income, education, and work history for both you and your spouse
- If possible, bring pay stubs, tax returns, 1099s, proof of self-employment income
- An overview of your assets and debts
- Prenuptial agreement, if you have one
- Information about any minor children
Having that information and documents available for the initial consultation will enable us to provide more exact predictions and estimates rather than a general overview.
Regardless … if you don’t have all of this information at your fingertips … that ok. We can still have a great conversation about your options
Colorado is a no-fault divorce state. You don’t need to supply us or the courts with sensitive and private information about what led to your decision to divorce.
When you sign a Colorado divorce petition, you simply acknowledge that the marriage is irretrievably broken. That being said, we may need to discuss your spouse’s behavior if it impacts your child custody or placement arrangement.
3. Come With a List of Questions
This meeting is also a chance for you to ask us questions. We want you to feel comfortable and confident with your choice when you hire an attorney. Our approach may not be for everyone, which is why we offer a no-obligation consultation.
We can also address any specific questions you have at this point, for example:
- Am I eligible for spousal support? Child support?
- I think my spouse is hiding money. How do I uncover these assets?
- Will the courts automatically assign 50/50 custody? I am worried about my spouse’s behavior and their ability to parent.
At the end of your consultation, we will provide you with the estimated fees and costs to handle your specific case. We are transparent from day one, because the last thing you need during a divorce proceeding is any surprises from your legal team.
Some people are very matter-of-fact during their consultation, while others become emotional. Your consultation with us is a safe and confidential space, no matter how you feel at the moment.
Ready to Schedule Your Divorce Consultation?
Many people experience a wave of emotions when they schedule a divorce consultation with us. You are putting your thoughts into action. The consultation is the first concrete step towards a better future.
Our aim is to be a stable and compassionate force for our clients. It’s crucial that you find someone you are comfortable with and have a good rapport with. If you choose us, know that we want what you want: an equitable divorce and custody settlement that puts you and your children on the path to a better future.
If you’re ready to speak with potential divorce lawyers, we’d love to meet with you. Please schedule your complimentary divorce consultation today.
