To achieve a good outcome in a divorce, it's essential to have a good working relationship with your family law attorney. Here are some tips on how to help your family law attorney help you in your divorce case.
1. Be Honest and Transparent: Your attorney needs to know all about your situation to provide you with the best advice and representation possible. It's crucial to be honest and transparent with your attorney about your situation, your expectations, and your goals for the divorce. Your private communications with your attorney and your attorney’s staff are protected by client attorney privilege. This means your attorney cannot disclose these communications to a third party without your permission. Being open and honest with your attorney is one of the best ways you can help your attorney help you.
2. Plan ahead: You will receive all dates and deadlines related to your case well in advance. Always be thinking and planning ahead for the next step in your case, and the next stage in your life.
3. Stay Organized: Keep all relevant documents, such as financial statements, tax returns, and any correspondence with your spouse, in PDF form in a centralized and easily accessible location. If you organize and share these documents well in advance of the time we need them for your case, this will better help your attorney help you.
4. Communicate Effectively: Make sure to communicate clearly and effectively with your attorney. If you have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to ask. Think through your questions before you ask them. If you are meeting with your attorney, write down your questions in advance. If you are communicating with your attorney in writing, batch your questions together in one communication. This will help your attorney more efficiently and effectively help you. It's also important to respond promptly to any requests for information or documents from your attorney.
5. Engage a therapist: Divorce can be a highly emotional process, but it's essential to keep your emotions in check when working with your attorney. Try to remain objective and focused on your goals for the divorce, rather than getting caught up in anger or sadness. Process your emotions with your therapist, not your attorney.
6. Be Realistic: Understand that divorce cases can be complicated and take time to resolve. It's essential to be realistic about the outcomes that are possible in your case, based on the law and the facts at hand. Your opinions as to what is “fair” may or may not align with what the law says is fair. Understand that you will need to flex, adapt, and probably step outside of your comfort zone to resolve your divorce case.
7. Follow Your Attorney's Advice: Your attorney has years of experience and knowledge of the law. Trust their advice and follow their guidance, even if it's not exactly what you want to hear. They have your best interests in mind and will work to achieve the best possible outcome for you.
8. Be Prepared for Court: If your case goes to court, make sure to dress appropriately and arrive on time for any court hearings. Work with your attorney well in advance to prepare for court. Procrastination is not your friend; preparation is.
In conclusion, divorce can be a difficult and stressful process, but working with a knowledgeable and experienced family law attorney can help to make it easier. By following these tips, you can help your attorney help you in your divorce case, ultimately leading to the best possible outcome for you and your family.