What to Ask a Divorce Attorney in an Initial Consultation in Texas
It’s smart to do some research before going in to interview a divorce lawyer about using their services. Before diving into what specific questions to ask, though, it might help you to know that 86% of couples who both have Texas divorce lawyers will willingly agree to a child custody plan without needing to go to trial. Even better news is that 82% of couples who both have divorce attorneys will end up agreeing to joint custody.
Finding a lawyer who “gets you” and has the right credentials is an exciting possibility because it can have a huge impact on not just your future but also your child’s.
What to Expect During the Initial Consultation
You can anticipate the following when you first meet with a divorce lawyer:
- Approach the meeting like you are interviewing the lawyer for the job of representing you in your divorce.
- A discussion about your rights, the divorce process, and other basic information
- Rapport-building. Do you like this person? Can you see yourself comfortably working with this person for six to twelve months or longer?
Interviewing a Divorce Attorney
Before you meet with the lawyer, thoroughly read through his or her website, online reviews, and social media. If you see anything of interest or that concerns you, definitely mention it during the meeting. When you get face-to-face, ask the lawyer these questions:
- What aspects of my case will you personally be handling?
- Do you have a paralegal or assistant? If so, what aspects of my case will that person be handling?
- Do you know my ex? Is there any conflict of interest?
- Can I see a copy of your contract? Will I pay a retainer? Do you offer a flat fee? What is your hourly rate?
- Do you know my X and/or the attorney representing my X?
- Have you ever gone against my ex’s divorce lawyer? What do you know about or think of my ex’s lawyer?
- Is your style more collaborative or more aggressive?
- How many divorces have you handled in Texas? How many of those divorces settled out of court?
- How much do you charge? Will I need to pay a retainer? Do you have a contract?
Bring Your Paperwork to the Consultation
Before the consultation, the attorney will instruct you on what to bring with you, if anything. The purpose of bringing the documents is so the divorce lawyer can give you a full overview of what your case might entail and provide any relevant insights or guidance. The divorce lawyer might ask for any of the following:
- Proof of income/assets
- Tax returns
- Related legal documents (a restraining order, domestic violence warrant, etc).
- Marriage license
- Birth certificate
- Social worker/case worker/guardian ad litem reports
- Report cards
Schedule Your Fort Worth Divorce Consultation Now
Mims, Ballew, & Hollingsworth is a Ft. Worth family law firm featuring experienced divorce lawyers, child custody attorneys, and more—this is what we do! We’d love to help you navigate your legal situation with compassion and confidence. To schedule your divorce consultation, use our web contact form today.
Constance Mims
Constance Mims has over fifteen years of experience practicing exclusively family law. Mrs. Mims is Board Certified in Family Law, by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. She is Collaborative Law certified and is a shrewd negotiator, not to mention her experience in the most challenging child custody, child support, spousal maintenance, alimony, prenuptial agreements, and divorce issues, both in court and in the appellate arena.
