The first step in the divorce process is to choose the right divorce attorney. Once you’ve begun the process of working together, you’re going to want to be sure to respond to their questions as quickly as they can so they can get everything. You should fully and completely respond to their questions but don’t write a dozen pages when a simple “yes” or “no” would have been enough.
Many clients are surprised when they start working with Kendall Gkikas & Mitchell that we need a wide variety of information about the marriage. Of course, some of the following information you can choose to keep private but remember that the more information we have, the better we can represent you. Read on to learn more and then contact us at 909-482-1422 for more information.
Expect to be asked the follow questions
First, we’ll want to know why you’re looking for a divorce and what led to your breakup. We want to make sure that there’s not a part of you that’s hoping you’re going to get back together instead of divorcing. If that’s the case, then you’ll have a very different goal than we do.
We’ll need information about you, your spouse, and any children you have. This information will include their names, addresses, phone numbers, ages, social security numbers, health status, and any information about immigration if it’s applicable.
Next we’ll need information about your marriage. When did you get married? Did you work with an attorney to get a prenup agreement before your marriage? If you did, then be sure to bring it to your consultation. We’ll also want to know if you or your spouse has been married before, as well as any anticipated problems with your kids – such as, are they going to try to limit your right of custody?
Financial info will be an important part of the equation. We need to know what assets you each brought to the marriage, as well as the debts you brought. We’ll need details about income, expenses, and how you split the bills. We’ll need details on how to contact employers, details on your investments and retirement accounts, and information on any property you own, along with the date of purchase. If you have a mortgage, we’ll need that info too.
We recommend that before you come in to see Kendall Gkikas & Mitchell, you take a little time to create a detailed budget that outlines your spending on everything from housing to personal grooming. If you’ve got children together, then you’ll need to include their expenses in this budget.
If there are any lawsuits or bankruptcy issues involving either of you, bring these to the consultation. You should also come to us with a clear idea of what your goals are. Do you want full custody? Do you want spousal support? Who do you want to get the house?
Of course, we can’t guarantee that we can get you everything on your goal list but knowing what your priorities are will help us best represent you. If you have questions about this information feel free to reach out to us at 909-482-1422 and we’ll be happy to help you get ready.
