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It is no secret that divorce proceedings can be trying for all parties involved. However, they should be treated with great importance, as they determine your future as well as that of your family. That is why it is crucial to retain the services of a skilled New Jersey divorce attorney to fight for your best interests. In doing so, you will attend an initial consultation. 

What Information Should I Take With Me?

During a first meeting with a divorce attorney, it is important to be prepared and bring the necessary documentation. This can vary depending on the attorney you see, however it is important for them to get a general understanding of your situation. This includes information on you, your spouse, and the matters of your case. For example, you should bring a copy of the complaint for divorce if it has already been filed. In addition to this, financial information of the marriage is integral to the proceedings. It is because of this that evidence of this information should be shown through the following documentation: 

  • Recent pay stubs
  • Individual and business tax returns, W-2 forms, and 1099s
  • Recent bank statements

What Can I Expect During a Consultation?

First consultations with a divorce attorney usually last approximately one hour. The attorney will ask a variety of questions regarding the marriage during this time. This can include its duration, both you and your spouse’s income and employment history, any assets or debts held, if you have children, and more. The information you may wish to provide your attorney with can include:

  • A brief history of the marriage
  • Background information about yourself, your spouse, and your children
  • Your immediate situation
  • Your intentions and goals regarding your situation
  • What information you are seeking from the consultation

Before going into the meeting, it is important to understand that the advice you receive can vary. This depends on the circumstances of the divorce. 

Can I Bring Support?

A person going through divorce often experiences a wide range of emotions. This is difficult to go through alone, which is why it is important to have a support system. This can include bringing a loved one to the consultation in order to listen, ask questions, and take notes to help you later on.

Contact our Firm

If you require strong legal representation for matters of divorce and family law in New Jersey, contact The Law Offices of Paone, Zaleski & Murphy to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced attorneys today.