When you and your spouse have decided to end your marriage, you will need to start the divorce process. North Carolina has specific rules that you must follow when you seek a legal separation or divorce. One of the first steps you will want to take is to hire an attorney to handle the legal details and guide you through the North Carolina divorce process. While it is not mandatory to have an attorney, it often makes divorce easier and less stressful.
Before you hire an attorney it is a good idea to have an initial consultation. You can often accomplish this through a video call or in person. The purpose of the consultation is to learn more about the attorney and to find out some of the basic issues that will be present in your divorce proceedings.
Learn About the Law Firm
Before your consultation, do your homework by reading about the law firm online. During the meeting, ask questions about the law firm’s previous cases to ensure that they have attorneys with knowledge and experience in the area of family law. Find out about the attorneys that will work on your case as well as the support team who will also interact with you during your divorce. A robust law firm has a number of people who will assist with the case and may appoint a specific attorney to handle the main aspects.
When you and your spouse have decided to end your marriage, you will need to start the divorce process. North Carolina has specific rules that you must follow when you seek a legal separation or divorce. In this video, managing member and North Carolina Board Certified Family Law Specialist Matt Arnold explains what questions you should ask a divorce attorney.
Ask How the Attorney Can Help You Achieve Your Goals
Every divorce is different and you may have some unique expectations and goals. Discuss your general goals with the attorney and find out how the lawyer will work to help you achieve them. Keep in mind that some divorces are more complex than others. As the case progresses, you want an attorney who will be on your side and always work to resolve matters favorably for you. Ask what you should do now to protect your interests.
Interview the Attorney to Find a Good Fit
Many attorneys handle the same types of cases, so you should choose one that not only meets your legal needs but one you are comfortable with. You will likely be spending time talking to your lawyer throughout the duration of your case. You want to hire an attorney you will feel comfortable talking with and someone you trust. Read reviews from other clients to find out what they liked best about the law firm.
Tips for Preparing for a Consultation
A legal consultation offers a limited way to start the divorce process. To ensure that you get the information you need, prepare ahead for the meeting. Whether in person, by phone, or online, you will want to write down some questions that pertain to your specific details. Make a list of your concerns. Remember that a consultation is a brief initial meeting and is not intended to answer all your legal questions.
The family law practice group at Arnold & Smith, PLLC includes four Board-Certified Family Law specialists and one Child Welfare Law specialist, as well as several attorneys with many years of family law experience that are committed to providing a powerful voice to individuals facing the often-tumultuous issues in this area of law. The range of issues our family law clients may be facing include pre- and post-nuptial agreements; separation agreements; post-separation support; child support (both temporary and permanent); absolute divorce; divorce from bed and board; military divorce; equitable distribution of assets; child custody (both temporary and permanent); retirement benefits and divorce; alimony and spousal support; adoption; and emancipation. Because this area of the law is usually emotionally charged and complicated, the family law attorneys at Arnold & Smith, PLLC act with the utmost dedication to ensure that each client understands his or her options, and then act to achieve the best result possible for that client’s particular situation.
Source:
https://www.law.cornell.edu/wex/family_law
https://www.nccourts.gov/help-topics/divorce-and-marriage/separation-and-divorce
Arnold & Smith, PLLC – YouTube
See Our Related Blog Posts:
Preparing for your First Meeting with a Divorce Attorney