Divorce Consultation Questions: What to Ask the Attorney [2023]

Going through a divorce can be a challenging and emotional journey, especially in Texas, where the laws and regulations surrounding divorce can be complex. That’s why finding the right attorney for your case is so important. So how do you do this? By asking the right questions during your initial consultation.

Meeting with an attorney for the first time can be intimidating, but with this list of divorce consultation questions, you can be sure that you’re gathering all the necessary information to make an informed decision.
Remember, your attorney will play a crucial role in your divorce proceedings, so it’s important to choose someone who has legal expertise, understands your unique situation, and with whom you feel comfortable working long-term.

In this article, we offer important questions to ask during your initial consultation, but please also take a moment to watch this video by experienced family law attorney Turner Thornton, who explains what you can expect during an initial consultation at Varghese Summersett Family Law Group.

Important Attorney Questions

During the divorce process, your attorney’s expertise and approach can significantly impact your case’s outcome. As you prepare for a divorce consultation, it’s vital to ask specific questions that will help you understand the attorney’s experience, approach, and how they will handle your unique situation. These questions provide insight into the attorney’s proficiency in family law and familiarity with the specific legal landscape of Texas, including the county where your case will be filed. Here are some critical divorce consultation questions that will help you assess the suitability of an attorney for your case.

1. How long have you been practicing family law?
2. Do you actively practice in the county where my case will be filed?
3. What is your experience handling divorce cases in Texas?
4. What is your approach to divorce cases – do you prefer to resolve them outside of court or go to trial?
5. How do you tailor your strategy to individual client needs?
6. Have you handled cases with issues similar to mine before? What was the outcome?
7. How will we communicate about my case and how often?
8. Can I reach you after hours?
9. How will I have access to my file?
10. Who will be working on my case? Will other attorneys at your firm or paralegals be handling aspects of it?
11. Who makes court appearances on my case?
12. Do you have time to handle my case?
13. How much will it cost for you to represent me? When is payment due?
14. Other than attorney fees, will there be additional costs and expenses?
15. What can I do to control the cost of my divorce?
16. Can I get my spouse to pay your attorney’s fees?
17. What is your success rate in divorce cases?
18. Can you provide references or reviews from past clients?
19. What are my next steps after this consultation?

Asking these questions will not only help you understand the attorney’s experience and skills but also give you a sense of their communication style and transparency. It’s crucial to choose an attorney who not only has expertise in family law but also makes you feel comfortable and confident throughout the process.

Divorce Specific Questions

Going into a divorce consultation with a clear set of questions will make your first meeting with an attorney more productive, focused, and informative, ensuring that you cover all the essential aspects of your case and receive tailored advice for your specific situation. These divorce consultation questions are specifically tailored to uncover vital details about how the divorce process works in Texas, the timeline you can expect, and the legal intricacies involved. They are designed to help you understand key aspects such as the initiation of the divorce process, asset and debt division, the nature of contested versus uncontested divorces, and issues surrounding child custody and support.

1. How do you start the divorce process in Texas?
2. How long will it take?
3. Is there a waiting period for a divorce in Texas?
4. Who gets to stay in the house during the divorce process?
5. What are the grounds for divorce in Texas?
6. How are assets and debts divided in a Texas divorce?
7. What’s the difference between a contested and uncontested divorce?
8. Will I have to go to court?
9. Can we resolve the case without going to trial?
10. How should I communicate with my spouse during the divorce process?
11. What should I avoid during the divorce process?
12. What if my spouse doesn’t agree to the divorce or settlement terms?
13. How do you handle high-conflict cases?
14. Can I modify the divorce agreement in the future?

Having a well-prepared list of divorce-specific questions during your consultation will provide you with a deeper understanding of what to expect and help your attorney better assess and address your unique needs and concerns. Remember, the more informed you are, the more empowered you will be to make decisions that are in your best interest and that of your family. Do not hesitate to ask for clarifications or additional details, as this is a pivotal step in building a solid foundation for your legal journey ahead.

Child Specific Questions

If your divorce involves children, asking the attorney specific questions about child custody, visitation, and support is imperative. These questions will help you understand the legal framework surrounding children in divorce cases and how your attorney can advocate for your rights as a parent. They also provide insight into the attorney’s approach and experience in handling sensitive matters involving children. Here are some essential child-specific questions to ask during your consultation.

1. How will child custody and support be determined?
2. Who gets the kids during the divorce process?
3. How much child support will I have to pay, or will I receive?
4. Can I modify child support in the future?
5. How will visitation be scheduled?
6. How are holidays, birthdays, and vacations handled in custody agreements?
7. What if my spouse and I cannot agree on a custody or visitation arrangement?
8. What factors does the court consider when determining custody and visitation?
9. How will you help me protect my parental rights during the divorce process?
10. Do you have experience handling complex child custody cases involving parental alienation, relocation, or substance abuse?
11. Will my children have to testify in court?
12. How can I protect them from the emotional impact of the divorce?
13. Can grandparents or other family members be involved in the custody and visitation process?
14. Can the child’s preference be considered in custody decisions?
15. What if my spouse doesn’t follow the court order?
16. How will child support be affected if my financial situation changes?
17. Are there provisions for a child’s healthcare, education, and other special needs in the custody and support agreement?

What Happens if I Forget to Ask Some of My Divorce Consultation Questions?

A divorce consultation can be a nerve-wracking experience, and it’s natural to forget or overlook some questions. If this happens, don’t worry – you can always reach out to the attorney later for clarification. Most attorneys are open to answering questions by email or phone after the initial consultation.
Hopefully, you will walk away from the meeting with a clear understanding of the divorce process and your legal rights and options. Remember, knowledge is power, and the more informed you are, the better equipped you will be to navigate the divorce process successfully. So don’t hesitate to ask any lingering questions or bring up additional concerns even after you leave the attorney’s office.

In the meantime, however, feel free to check out our comprehensive guide – Top 100 FAQs about Texas Divorce – which may be able to answer your most pressing issues.

Finding the Right Attorney is a Deeply Personal Decision

Choosing the right attorney for your divorce is a deeply personal decision that depends on your unique situation and needs. The right attorney for you is someone who not only has the legal expertise and experience but also understands your individual circumstances and is someone you feel comfortable working with throughout the process. Trust, communication, and a sense of partnership are key factors in this relationship. It’s essential to take your time, meet with multiple attorneys if necessary, and choose someone who aligns with your goals and with whom you feel a sense of trust and confidence.
At Varghese Summersett Family Law Group, we have a compassionate and knowledgeable team of attorneys who are ready to answer any questions you may have during your consultation. We understand the complexities and sensitivities involved in divorce cases, especially when children are involved, and we are committed to providing personalized and effective legal representation for our clients. If you are considering a divorce or have already started the process, contact us today at 817-900-3220 to schedule a consultation today.