Divorce Intake Questions
One of the first steps in proceeding with a divorce includes a consultation with a divorce attorney. As a person begins his marriage dissolution, the attorney who is representing him must dig into her client's personal life. During the initial consultation, the divorce attorney will ask the client a series of questions referred to as intake questions to get to know the client better. Intake questions help the attorney decide how the divorce should be handled.
-
Basic Questions
-
Basic questions that the lawyer will ask include when you were married, the state and county in which you were married, and your spouse's name. This information is necessary to set the foundation of, and move forward with, the divorce proceedings.
Attorney Fees
-
The divorce lawyer will always address an outline of the fees that will be attached to the use of her services. Furthermore, the lawyer will make sure that you agree to pay these fees and will also ask how you intend to pay for them. Typically, a divorce lawyer will request a retainer fee up front before he begins to work on your divorce.
-
Desired Outcome
-
The divorce lawyer will ask you what your desired outcome is. It is clear you want your marriage to end, but what else do you expect to receive? Do you want the home, custody of the children, the money in the savings account? Letting your lawyer know exactly what you want helps him decide how to proceed with your divorce.
Finances
-
In order for the lawyer to better understand your financial state, you will be asked several questions about your marital assets and debts. These questions may include: Do you have a joint banking account? Can you provide past tax returns and documentation of wills and trust agreements? How much income does each person bring into the home monthly?
Children
-
The divorce lawyer will question if you and your spouse have children together. If there are children as a result of the marriage, the lawyer will ask if the children are of age, who is the primary caregiver, and if you would like to have sole custody or joint custody if the children are not of age.
-
References
Resources
- Photo Credit marriage defined image by Christopher Walker from Fotolia.com