For many, the prospect of finding a divorce lawyer is frightening, and one of the most complex parts may be having to divulge personal information that may affect the proceedings. As uncomfortable as this may be, it is a crucial step in getting the results you desire.

Rather than avoiding these hard conversations, it is in your best interests to speak up about these factors. You will need to prepare for your initial meeting with a divorce solicitor, so be sure to share information about the following;

• Children

If children are involved in the marriage, full information has to be shared with your attorney, whether from a previous or current partner. Asides from names and birth dates, you will need to provide details like nationality, education, living and visiting arrangements if separated. Also, be sure to disclose if there has been any formal intervention concerning abuse or negligence.

• Doubts about divorcing

Many divorce proceedings begin without concerned parties being sure if they really want a divorce. Some people still hold hope for reconciliation, and this negates the goal of your attorney, which is to finalize the best possible arrangements for a split in your favor. If this is true for you, inform your attorney so that you can both be on the same page. In some cases, your lawyer might be able to help with reconciliation.

• Hidden Assets and Debts

It is against the law to have assets hidden from your legal partner. Rather than having this information brought out during discovery, explain to your lawyer so that they can help you work through it. A failure to do this would most likely harm your hearing.

• Nationality

If you or your spouse are citizens of another country or you got married outside the US, this information is vital to your proceedings. You will also need to present internationally held assets, if any. This also applies if you have plans to relocate with your children.

• Domestic Abuse

Sharing that you have been in an abusive situation is a hard thing to do. However, your

 must be aware, as they would help guide you on how this affects your divorce. If there is a chance of risk to your physical well-being, they will be able to get a restraining order or local resources like shelters and counseling to protect you. If you or your spouse have mental disorders, your attorney will need to know.

• Infidelity

If you or your spouse have had an affair, it is essential to disclose this to your attorney, even if the other party is unaware. Claims of infidelity would most likely put you at a disadvantage. This also holds for cases where either party contracted sexually transmitted diseases. While it is tricky to divulge, you may be entitled to settlement for emotional distress or related expenses.

• Key Information

Asides from these details mentioned above, you will need to share important information about your marriage with your attorney, including you and your spouse’s assets, when you started living together, where you have lived, and dates of marriage and separation. It is necessary to share financial events like acquisitions, inheritances, loans, or prenuptial arrangements.

If you are worried about confidentiality, keep in mind that you have client-attorney privilege; and your attorney cannot disclose information you have shared without your consent.

If you are on the lookout for a legal advocate with the right range of expertise, compassion, and dedication to providing results, contact us at Franks, Kelly, Matuszewich, and Andrle Attorneys at Law

We do not take divorce difficulties casually; we will help you navigate the stress, confusion, and problems that come with these dealings and make it as easy as possible for you and your family.