How to Prepare for Your First Meeting with a Divorce Lawyer in Shreveport, LA

A divorce takes its toll on both parties in many ways – emotional, physical, and financial. Sometimes the marital estate matters get resolved amicably. In a contested divorce however, things can get ugly fast. You may want sole custody of the children or to walk away with the house. Many questions will come up about spousal support, child support, and if it is possible to get out of the marriage unscathed. Having an experienced and qualified divorce lawyer in Shreveport, Louisiana, can make all the difference between coming out with nothing and getting a fair settlement. Help yourself best by helping your attorney by coming prepared for your first consultation. Then work with them to ensure you get the settlement you deserve.

4 Tips to Help You Prepare for Your First Consultation

If your marriage has hit rock bottom and is headed towards divorce, being prepared for your first meeting is paramount. Here are four tips to aid you:

  1. Make a List of Questions: You may not remember everything you wanted to ask your divorce lawyer in Shreveport, Louisiana if you don’t write it down. You might be concerned about child support or who is entitled to jointly held property. Additionally, having questions on paper also gives you the opportunity to write down answers and note any additional questions that may come to mind. This step will also aid you in methodically going down your list during an emotional time.
  2. Write Down Your Goals for the Divorce: It may seem a little odd to have goals going into a not-so-pleasant situation but consider what you envision the outcome to be and record it. Do you want to keep the home? Do you want alimony plus child support? Your lawyer will be able to give you a rundown of how the law works and how it may affect what you hope to see. This way, you will be able to go into the proceedings fully aware of the possibilities.
  3. Pull Together All Financial Information: Your attorney will need a clear picture of the financial status of your spouse and you. Gather together pay stubs, tax returns, debts, bank statements, credit card statements, and retirement account information. If children are involved, it’s helpful to list fees associated with extracurricular activities, medical expenses, tuition, and childcare fees. Finally, pull together a list of all your assets.
  4. Prepare a Written Summary: Some of the information your divorce lawyer will need includes the names of your spouse and children, social security numbers of all parties, dates of birth, employers, addresses, and annual income. You’ll also want to note your date of marriage and the date your spouse moved out.

Have an Experienced Divorce Lawyer in Shreveport, LA on Your Side

Head into your divorce proceedings knowing you have an experienced legal professional working hard to get you the best settlement for your case. David L. White has the experience and know-how to help you with child custody, visitation, spousal support, and property distribution. Not only does he understand Louisiana’s law, he understands the stress this process can take and how to help you through it. Rest assured you are hiring legal counsel with your best interests in mind. Find out more when you call today.

Contact your divorce lawyer in Shreveport, Louisiana, to set up your initial consultation. Give us a call at 318-747-7023.