Preparing for your first consultation with a divorce lawyer can be an overwhelming, intimidating and confusing process. It's easy to find yourself not knowing what you should bring or say when you meet in person.

This blog post will walk you through the steps of preparing for your initial meeting so that things go smoothly. Later on, you might be talking about complex issues like divorce asset split, child custody or child support, so it’s important that you get started on the right foot.

Bring the necessary documents.

One of the most important things to remember when meeting with a divorce lawyer is that you should come prepared. This means having all of your documents and information ready to go. Here's a quick list of what a divorce lawyer might need from you:

• Your full legal name and date of birth
• The full legal name and date of birth of your spouse
• The addresses of both you and your spouse for the past five years
• A copy of your driver's licence or passport
• A copy of your spouse's driver's licence or passport
• Documentation of any assets or debts you and your spouse have (mortgage statements, car titles, credit card bills, etc.)
• Your most recent tax return

Prepare notes and questions.

In addition to bringing all the necessary documents (your lawyer will tell you what to bring), it's also important to come prepared with any questions you may have. Remember that the meeting is an opportunity for you and your lawyer to get to know each other and for you to get a better understanding of the divorce process. Some common questions you might want to ask include:

• What are the costs involved?
• How long will it take to finalise my divorce?
• Will I have to go to court during my case?
• What if we can't agree on something in our settlement agreement, do we need a judge or mediator?

The list is endless but these four common questions are great places to start. If you come prepared with your own set of questions, this meeting won't feel as overwhelming.

In addition, it's also important to have notes ready. Outline your legal concerns. You might want to include your questions so you won't forget them during the appointment.

Remember to be honest the entire time.

Divorce Lawyers are not mind readers and will need all the information to help you. Any lie you say may be uncovered later on and can work against you, so be sure you’re completely honest.

Finally, it's important to remember that this meeting is about you and your spouse. This isn't a time for you to start pointing fingers or placing blame. Your goal is to work together collaboratively in order to come up with the best solution for you and your family.

To summarise, here are a few notes:

• Your first consultation with a divorce lawyer is an opportunity for you to get acquainted with them and for them to learn about your case.
• Bring all of your documents and information so that they can better advise you on what steps to take next.
• Come prepared with any questions you may have so that you can get the most out of this meeting.
• Remember that this meeting is about you and your spouse working together towards a resolution.
• And finally, be honest with your lawyer so that they can give you the best advice possible.

The process can be difficult and emotional, but a seasoned divorce lawyer will gu