1. Be prepared
The first meeting with your family lawyer can be a daunting experience. But being prepared will help make the best use of your time to achieve a positive outcome. One of our priorities is to ensure that we have a good working relationship with all of our clients and that you feel comfortable and confident with your solicitor. So, coming armed with as much background information as possible will ensure that all-important initial appointment is productive, stressfree and, ultimately, successful – you can even bring a family member or friend along to the meeting for support, to take notes and to ask any questions that might not have been covered during the course of the conversation.
2. What should I expect from my first meeting?
All discussions with your solicitor are confidential. At the first meeting, our focus will be on putting you at ease, and making you feel comfortable and confident about the new working relationship. We will be looking to learn more about you, establish your personal circumstances, assess your legal position and agree a plan of action with you. It is important you feel reassured about the next steps, understand what your solicitor will be doing, and are clear about anything they require from you.
3. What should I bring with me?
You will be asked to bring ID with you to the first meeting. Documents such as your passport, driving licence and a recent utility bill are necessary to satisfy legal requirements. It may also be helpful for you to bring other relevant documents such as your original marriage certificate or any correspondence you may have had with your partner or spouse’s solicitor. If you wish to discuss divorce, separation and the distribution of assets, your solicitor will need to understand your financial position. It is important not to look for, retain or take copies of confidential documents addressed to your partner or spouse.
4. What happens after our meeting?
Following your meeting, you should receive information from your solicitor regarding pricing options and terms of engagement. We will provide you with options in relation to legal costs (if they were not discussed during the meeting), and if appropriate, details on funding resources that may be available to you. If you have any questions following your meeting, or queries relating to your situation, contact us for confirmation. It is important that you are clear and understand the plan at every stage.
5. What other support and guidance is available?
Alongside, your legal advice, many clients benefit from support from other specialists such as counsellors, divorce coaches, therapists, mediators, financial advisors and mortgage advisors. Some clients use these professional services before seeking legal advice, while others prefer a combined approach. Each situation is different, and it is important you receive the right support and guidance at the right time.
Would you like to know more?
Please contact one of our expert lawyers in our family law team.
You can download a PDF version of this guide.
