Posted in Divorce
Whether you’re facing a divorce, custody dispute, or another sensitive family law matter, the first meeting with a Los Angeles, CA divorce lawyer can feel overwhelming. It’s not just about telling your story—it’s about beginning a process that will shape your family’s future. Arriving prepared can ease anxiety, save time, and set the tone for a productive legal partnership.
Here’s what you should know before walking into that first consultation, and how to make the most of your time with your attorney.
Why This Meeting Matters
Your first consultation is much more than an introduction. It’s a chance to:
- Share your goals and concerns
- Understand your legal rights and options
- Evaluate whether the attorney is a good fit for you
- Start forming a roadmap for your case
At Skarin Law, we take this initial meeting seriously. We aim to listen carefully, ask the right questions, and offer early insight into how your situation might unfold under California family law.
What To Bring To Your First Meeting
You don’t need to have your entire life organized into binders—but the more relevant information you bring, the more efficient and productive the meeting will be. Consider gathering the following:
- Basic Personal Information
- Full legal names, addresses, and contact info for you and your spouse/partner
- Dates of marriage and separation (if applicable)
- Names and birthdates of children
- Financial Documents
- Recent pay stubs (for you and your spouse)
- Last 2–3 years of tax returns
- Bank statements, credit card balances, and loan info
- A list of assets: real estate, vehicles, retirement accounts, investments
- A list of debts: mortgages, student loans, credit cards
Even if you don’t have all of this available yet, bringing what you can helps your attorney start assessing property division, support issues, and more.
- Legal Documents (If Applicable)
- Any existing court orders
- Prenuptial or postnuptial agreements
- Custody agreements or prior family court filings
- Restraining orders, if relevant
- Key Questions or Concern
You don’t need to know legal jargon. Just think about what’s keeping you up at night—custody, finances, housing—and be ready to discuss those concerns honestly.
What You’ll Likely Be Asked
A good family law attorney will guide the conversation, but it’s helpful to be ready for questions such as:
- What led to the current situation?
- What are your top concerns (e.g., custody, financial support, housing)?
- Are you and your partner/spouse still communicating?
- What do you hope the outcome will look like?
- Have there been issues with domestic violence, substance abuse, or mental health?
These questions aren’t meant to be invasive—they help your attorney assess what legal strategies may be appropriate and whether urgent protective actions are needed.
What To Expect From The Attorney
During this first meeting, your attorney should:
- Listen carefully to your situation
- Explain your rights under California family law
- Outline legal options available to you
- Discuss possible next steps
- Be transparent about costs and the scope of services
At Skarin Law, we understand that no two families—or family law cases—are alike. Our approach is solution-oriented, tailored, and realistic. We’ll never promise quick fixes or sugarcoat hard truths, but we will always advocate for your best interests with clarity and compassion.
Questions You Might Want To Ask
You’re not just there to be interviewed—you’re also evaluating whether this attorney is the right one to guide you through a difficult time. Consider asking:
- How much experience do you have with cases like mine?
- What are the possible outcomes for my situation?
- What’s your approach to resolving cases—mediation, litigation, or both?
- What should I be doing (or not doing) right now?
- What is your communication style and availability?
- What are your billing practices?
Don’t be afraid to take notes during the conversation or to follow up with more questions after the meeting.
How To Mentally And Emotionally Prepare
The first meeting can feel intense, especially if you’re discussing painful issues like betrayal, conflict, or fear about your children’s future. Here are a few reminders:
- Be honest, even if it’s uncomfortable. Your attorney can’t help you navigate what they don’t know.
- Try to stay focused on the big picture. Your long-term well-being matters more than short-term frustrations.
- Know it’s okay to be emotional. Family law involves some of life’s most personal challenges.
- Don’t feel pressure to make every decision right away. This meeting is about starting the conversation, not finalizing everything.
After The Meeting: What Happens Next?
Depending on your situation, your attorney may begin:
- Drafting and filing paperwork with the court
- Preparing a proposed parenting plan
- Requesting financial disclosures
- Negotiating with the other party’s attorney
- Advising you on temporary custody, support, or living arrangements
You’ll likely receive follow-up materials, a copy of any fee agreement, and guidance on your next steps. Communication is key, so make sure you know how to reach your attorney and what to expect in terms of updates or timelines.
If you would like help with any family law issue from what you should do before saying you want a divorce to how to avoid common mistakes people make during divorce, we are here to help.
Your Turning Point
Meeting with a family law attorney for the first time can be a turning point. Whether you’re at the beginning of a divorce, seeking custody of your children, or facing another family law issue, showing up prepared both practically and emotionally empowers you to take control of the process.
At Skarin Law Group, we’re committed to helping clients move forward with confidence. We meet you where you are, explain where you stand, and help you build a strategy toward where you want to be. If you’re ready to take the first step, schedule a confidential consultation with us today.
