The process for divorce can be very lengthy, challenging and complicated. Often, coming to the first consultation armed with the right documents and questions can make the process a little simpler and easier for you and your lawyer.

We have compiled a list below of documents, questions and the mindset you should bring to maximise your first consultation. Collecting these documents and information early is imperative as some entitlements are time sensitive.

Note that, this list may differ between law firms and when in doubt, it is best to ask the lawyer you are meeting regarding what to bring.

Documents

• List of questions

List any questions or concerns you want your lawyer to address regarding the process.

• Available Intake Form

Some law firms require you to fill out an available intake form which provides them with more details about your situation. If the firm has already obtained this form, you may not need to bring it

• Marriage Certificate
• Birth Certificates of any children
• Details of your ex-partner & their lawyer

These details should include any identification documents, address and any other contact details.

• Correspondence between you and your ex-partner and/or their lawyer
• List of Assets and Liabilities

It would be beneficial to note in your list if the assets were obtained prior to or during the marriage and from who. Assets can include any properties owned by you and your partner, vehicles, inheritance, gifts and other things.

• Financial documents

Ideally these documents should include bank account details, investments, debts, credit card details, stocks, business documents and such.

• You and your ex-partner’s employment and income details
• List of non-financial contributions

A non-financial contribution is a contribution to the household that is not money or assets. A few examples would be home improvements which increased the value of the family home and child rearing duties.

• Summary of family history
• List of household expenses

Questions to consider

• How long have you and your ex-partner been separated?
• What outcome do I want? What is most important to me in this outcome?
• What is important for the care of our children? What are their current care arrangements?
• Short term & long-term goals
• What am I most concerned about regarding this process?

Other

• Support Person – divorce/separation can be a very traumatic and stressful time for anyone. A support person to attend consultations with you may lessen the stress and better help you communicate the important details with your lawyer.

Coming to your consultation prepared can help ease some concerns or worries you have about the process and can make the process a little easier and simpler for your lawyer. However, the key to an effective consultation is giving open and honest answers to any questions your lawyer has.

If you are thinking about getting a divorce or are currently going through a family law dispute, contact one of our experienced solicitors on (02) 9920 1787 to discuss how we may assist you to achieve a favourable outcome. Our principal is named as leading Family and Matrimonial Lawyer of the Year by Acquisition International in their 2019 leading Adviser Awards. Pannu Lawyers are conveniently located in Blacktown and practice extensively in Family Law, Criminal Law, Commercial Law and Conveyancing. We appear at Federal Circuit Court of Australia Parramatta, Federal Circuit Court of Australia Sydney, Family Court of Australia Parramatta and Family Court of Australia Sydney on daily basis.

The above information is intended as general information and is not intended to be relied on as legal advice.