Information presented in this article is for informational purposes only and is not to be considered legal advice. Consulting with an attorney does not guarantee that the attorney will represent you. Representation begins with a contract for legal services and a retainer.

You have reached the point when you are considering the dissolution of your marriage. You have internally questioned how you should go about getting the process started and where you should turn for legal help. In the state of North Carolina, there are numerous firms that specialize in the practice of family law. Making the initial decision to consult a family law attorney about your divorce case is major step. Getting prepared for the initial consultation is an even greater step.

Do not walk into an initial consultation unprepared. Preparation can potentially save you the headache of wasted time and money. The role of your divorce attorney is to counsel you on issues of the law as they pertain to your case. It will be difficult not to let the emotions and stress of the situation determine the way you communicate with your attorney, but approaching the situation with reason is the most effective way to get the results you desire.

One of the most important ways to prepare for your consultation is by creating a timeline of events. This timeline should provide a truthful and accurate account of events leading up to your decision to seek attorney representation. Included in the timeline should be any marital issues such as instances of domestic violence, abuse, extramarital affairs, and so on. Some items that you list may spark potentially shameful or emotional memories, but remember your communication is guarded by attorney/client privilege.

The next step in preparation is creating your list of potential questions you may have. Even if you have experienced a previous divorce, you are not expected to be an expert. Your attorney should be able to address your questions and concerns, no matter how trivial you may think they are. There is no such thing as a silly or dumb question.

Being prepared can help reduce some of the initial anxiety. Information regarding individual and marital income, debts, and assets may be needed as a follow up to the initial consultation, so be prepared to locate those records. Again, it is important to be upfront and honest with your attorney in order to get the most effective results.