Meeting a family law attorney for the first time can be an emotional and intimidating experience. Painful issues like divorce and child custody are difficult to face, but if you’re well-prepared, you may find it easier. The legal team at Everett Cuskaden & Associates ALC in Honolulu, HI, advise that it’s important to create your own goals and expectations before meeting with a family law attorney. This will establish a cohesive relationship so you can begin moving forward without distractions.

4 Questions to Ask Yourself Before Meeting With a Family Law Attorney

1. Are You Committed to Divorce?

It can be difficult to truly accept the reality of divorce, so if you aren’t prepared, you should let a family law attorney know. They can begin exploring alternatives, or, if you’re uncertain, set up mediation so you and your spouse can decide how you want to part. Litigated, collaborative, and mediated divorces each require different strategies and time to prepare. This will also let the family law attorney know how involved you expect them to be.

2. What Can You Part With?

Asset division is a give and take process, and it’s best to know early on what you’re willing to let your spouse have. Divorces can get drawn out for months over asset conflicts, so if you know what you’re willing to let go of, a family law attorney can begin working out other negotiations. This is especially helpful for large and high-value assets like homes and heirlooms, but also applies to investments and debts. These all need individual attention, and letting your family law attorney know at your initial meeting will help them create a more effective plan.

3. Will You Seek Child Custody?

The biggest battle of any divorce is child custody. Legal battles can become endless, and if you intend to seek custody, your family law attorney should know immediately. Building a case for custody requires extensive research and preparation. And if you’re seeking child support as well as payments for school tuition, the process becomes even more complicated. Letting the attorney know from the beginning will help them build a good course of action and also begin preparing you for the eventual case in court.

4. Will You Ask for Spousal Support?

If you were used to a certain lifestyle while married or decided to forego a career to take care of your children, how will you support yourself after the divorce? The guidelines for alimony, i.e. how much you will be paid and for how long, are both up to the discretion of the judge. Alimony is often a temporary solution, giving you time to become self-sufficient. And like child support, a family law attorney will need adequate time to prepare a case.

If you’re looking for a reliable family law attorney, turn to the legal team at Everett Cuskaden & Associates ALC. They offer comprehensive family law services and will work closely with you to achieve the best possible outcome. Call (808) 545-1331 today to schedule a consultation and visit their website to learn about their divorce services. You can also find answers to common legal questions on their Youtube channel.