Getting ready for your first family law consultation can seem daunting, but the better prepared you are, the easier your meeting with your attorney will be. There are many reasons to see a family law attorney, such as filing for divorce, custody issues, or estate planning. Whatever the reason is in your case, there are a few documents you should be prepared to bring so your lawyer has an understanding of your case right away.
Personal Identification and Contact Information
The most basic documentation you’ll need to bring to your meeting with your family law attorney to make sure your time is spent wisely is a valid government-issued photo ID. You can bring your driver’s license, state ID, or passport. You should also bring a list of the following:
- Your complete, legal name
- Your mailing address
- Your email address
- Your phone number
- Emergency contact information
These items are necessary to open your file and start communications with your attorney. Be sure to provide accurate details so that communication with your attorney is not delayed.
Relevant Financial Documents
Being honest and transparent with your family law lawyer is essential, especially regarding finances. Having supporting financial documents available at the first meeting can help you and your lawyer work together to resolve your case with ease. If available, you should bring:
- Income details, including recent paystubs, tax returns for the last two years, and any documentation of additional income sources.
- Asset Information, which can be bank statements, retirement and investment account statements, as well as property deeds and mortgage documents.
- Debt Obligation Documentation such as credit card statements, loan agreements, and any other outstanding records of debt.
These documents will help your attorney understand your current financial situation as it pertains to your case, especially regarding divorce and child support.
Marital and Family Documents
Everyone’s family is unique. To fully understand your situation, your lawyer may request documents like:
- Marriage certificates
- Prenuptial or postnuptial agreements
- Previous divorce decrees
- Any documentation related to existing child custody or support arrangements
If none of these documents exist in your case, you can disregard them. However, if they pertain to you, bring the available documentation.
Existing Legal Documentation or Notices
If you’ve already had correspondence from the court regarding your case, you should bring:
- Any legal notices
- Correspondence with your spouse or their attorney
- Any relevant police reports or restraining orders
These documents will help your lawyer get a footing in your case and put together a strategy to fight for you.
Personal Notes and Questions
Take some time to sit down and write a timeline of the incidents that led to your case. Doing this helps your attorney get the complete picture of what’s already taken place. You should also write out any questions and be prepared to discuss them in detail.
Contact Greene Wilson & Styron For Your Family Law Needs
At Greene Wilson & Styron, we are known for our experience and dedication to family law practice. When you choose us, you are choosing:
- An Experienced Legal Team: Our attorneys have extensive experience in North Carolina family law, including divorce, equitable distribution, and child custody.
- A Client-Centered Approach: We are dedicated to giving our clients personalized attention. We know that any family law matter is emotional, and we are here to help you through your case with compassion.
- Recognized Excellence: Our firm is ranked among North Carolina’s Legal Elite and listed in Super Lawyers.
- Local Availability: We have offices in New Bern, Raleigh, and Beaufort, and we represent clients across eastern North Carolina.
If you’re ready to take the next step, don’t wait any longer. Start your case with a healthy foundation. If you’re facing a family law matter in North Carolina, let our team at Greene Wilson & Styron take you through the legal process with compassion and strength. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.