We understand you are likely to experience mixed emotions before meeting with your solicitor for the first time. We also understand how taxing the family law process can be. Try not to fret, because we are here to help!
These are our top tips to help you get the most out of your time with a solicitor.
1. Proactive preparation is key! We recommend you collect the relevant documents you want to discuss with a solicitor before your first consultation. This allows you to discuss the contents of the documents with your solicitor during the consultation rather than emailing them through at a later stage, where further costs are likely to be incurred. This also allows the solicitor to better understand your matter from the outset.
Documents you may be required to bring to your first consultation:
a. Marriage Certificate;
b. Parenting Plans;
c. Binding Financial Agreements;
d. Consent Orders; and
e. Relevant financial documents (gross income, assets, liabilities, superannuation account details etc.).
If you do not yet have relevant documents, it may be worthwhile preparing a brief overview of your matter, outlining your key concerns and the outcome you are seeking from your solicitor.
2. If you are someone who appreciates an overview of what you can expect from the family law process, you can bring a notepad to your consultation and ask your solicitor to provide a short summary of the steps you will be required to take to finalise your matter. This may save you wondering ‘what happens next?’. Legal practitioners always aim to inform you of the progression of your matter in a timely manner. However, if you have a good grasp on the process, updates will flow more efficiently for you and for your solicitor.
If you require further information or assistance, please do not hesitate to contact our office. We are happy to assist you.