How to Prepare for Your First Meeting with a Divorce Attorney in New York

Going through a divorce is never easy. Whether it’s a decision you’ve been considering for a while or something unexpected, meeting with a divorce attorney can feel like a daunting first step. But preparation can help you feel more in control of the process. At Vasiliou Law in Queens, NY, we’ve worked with many clients who felt overwhelmed at first, but with the right guidance, they found clarity and confidence. To make the most of your first consultation, here’s what you should do to prepare.

Gather Your Financial Information

Divorce isn’t just about ending a marriage—it’s also about untangling your financial lives. Your attorney will need a good understanding of your finances to provide meaningful advice. Before your meeting, try to collect key documents like:

Your most recent tax returns
Pay stubs or proof of income
Bank and credit card statements
Retirement or investment account summaries
Mortgage or lease agreements
A list of your assets (like your home, cars, and valuables)
A list of your debts (such as loans or credit cards)

It’s okay if you don’t have everything perfectly organized yet. Just bring as much as you can to help your attorney get a clear picture of your financial situation.

Think About What You Want

Before your consultation, take a moment to think about your goals. Do you want to keep the family home? How do you hope to share custody of your children? Are you open to negotiating with your spouse, or do you expect the divorce to be contentious?

You don’t need to have all the answers right now—that’s what your attorney is here to help with—but having an idea of your priorities will make the conversation more productive.

Write Down Your Questions

Your first meeting with a divorce attorney is a chance to ask questions and understand the road ahead. Divorce laws in New York can be complicated, so it’s helpful to come prepared with a list of things you’d like to know. Some common questions include:

How long does the divorce process usually take?
What’s the difference between a contested and uncontested divorce?
How does child custody work in New York?
How are assets divided in a divorce?
What should I expect in terms of legal fees?

Having a list of questions ensures you don’t forget anything important during the meeting.

Be Honest About Your Situation

It’s important to be completely honest with your attorney, even if some details feel uncomfortable to share. Whether it’s financial troubles, infidelity, or other personal issues, your attorney needs to know the full story to give you the best advice.

Remember, everything you share with your attorney is confidential. Their job is to advocate for you, not to judge your situation.

Bring Relevant Legal Documents

If you’ve already received divorce paperwork, such as a summons or complaint, make sure to bring those with you. If you have a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement, custody orders, or any other legal documents related to your marriage, bring those as well. These documents can give your attorney a head start in understanding your case.

Pay Attention to Communication

Your first consultation isn’t just about sharing your story—it’s also about making sure the attorney is a good fit for you. Take note of how they communicate. Do they listen carefully? Do they explain things in a way that makes sense to you? A good attorney will not only guide you through the legal process but also provide practical advice and reassurance.

At Vasiliou Law, we focus on clear, compassionate communication. Divorce is difficult, but you don’t have to go through it alone.

Moving Forward

Taking that first step to meet with a divorce attorney can feel overwhelming, but being prepared will make the process smoother. At Vasiliou Law, we understand how emotional this time can be, and we’re here to help you navigate it with care and professionalism.

If you’re ready to take the next step, contact our office at 347-967-6141 or visit svlawpartners.com to schedule a consultation. Together, we’ll work toward a solution that sets you up for the next chapter of your life.