Preparing for a child custody consultation can be a stressful experience. You may not be sure what to expect, and the meeting topic is unpleasant by nature. Perhaps another party is suing you for custody of your child, or you are filing a custody lawsuit to protect your visitation or custodial rights. Whatever the circumstances, you’ve made the right decision to get a custody attorney on your side as soon as possible.
Before you attend the consultation with your attorney, it’s a good idea to take the time to gather all of the crucial information and documentation. Going without the items can cause unnecessary delays or the need for extra appointments. Keep reading to find out what you can do now to get ready.
What to Expect During a Custody Consultation
The attorney’s primary objective during the consultation is to get a complete picture of your situation and your goals. They will ask questions about your relationship with your child and what is going on in your life right now. The attorney will dig deep to determine your custody goals so they can develop a solid legal plan to get you there.
During the consultation, you will also have time to ask any legal questions on your mind. Your attorney will be there to walk you through the process and help you understand how your state’s family law will impact your case. The consultation typically lasts an hour.
What to Bring to a Child Custody Consultation
Items to bring to your consultation include:
- A list of your questions
- Legal documents, including court orders, marriage certificates, and birth certificates
- Expense and financial documents
- Any potentially incriminating evidence such as text messages, emails, or social media posts
If you are ready to move forward to schedule a child custody consultation, contact the seasoned legal team at McCutchen McLean, LLC. Our knowledgeable family law attorneys are here to help you achieve optimal custody results for you and your child.