In the United States, more than 50 percent of marriages end in divorce. Unfortunately, Illinois is no exception. In 2011, there were more than 33,000 divorces and annulments statewide. If you are facing a divorce, a divorce lawyer can help you through the process. Before the initial meeting with your divorce lawyer, prepare the following:
- Legal documents — A divorce lawyer needs to closely examine any legal documents that are relevant to your marriage or divorce. Important and relevant legal documents may include: prenuptial or postnuptial agreements, divorce summons, estate planning documents, and personal protection orders in regard to domestic violence.
- Assets and debts — A divorce involves emotional aspects as well as financial aspects. To help assess issues such as maintenance (formerly known as alimony), child support, and property division, a divorce lawyer needs to review the financial circumstances of the spouses. You should prepare copies of the following documents for your attorney: tax returns for the preceding two years, bank and credit cards statements, your most recent pay stub, investment statements, and/or real estate documents, such as mortgages and deeds.
- Questions and concerns — Before meeting with your attorney, write down any questions or concerns regarding your divorce. Don’t be shy. It is your attorney’s job to answer your questions and make you feel as comfortable as possible.
If you are heading towards divorce, you need an experienced and trustworthy North Shore divorce lawyer. Call us today to schedule an initial consultation with a dedicated family attorney.