How to Prepare for an Initial Divorce Consultation in Indiana

Scheduling an initial consultation with a divorce attorney is the first step toward starting the divorce process. Whether you’re ready to move forward or simply exploring your options, preparing for this meeting can make a significant difference. At Eskew Law, we want to ensure you get the most value out of your time with us. Below are a few important steps you can take to prepare for a divorce consultation.

Think Through the Most Critical Issues

Before a judge can finalize your divorce, certain key issues must be resolved. Thinking through these topics ahead of time helps you identify your goals and allows for a more efficient and productive consultation. Consider your priorities related to:

• Division of assets and debts
• Child custody and parenting time
• Child support
• Spousal maintenance (alimony)

Even if you don’t have all the answers yet, reflecting on these topics will prepare you for the attorney’s questions and help shape your legal strategy moving forward.

Bring Important Documents with You

Gathering key documents before your consultation helps your attorney better understand your situation and provide tailored guidance. Bring whatever you have available from the following categories:

Court Filings and Legal Documents

• Any filings in your current case (if already filed)
• A dissolution decree or other post-decree documents (if applicable)
• Case file from previous representation (if available)
• Prenuptial agreement (if you have one)

Financial Documents

• Bank and brokerage account statements
• Savings bond information
• Retirement and pension account statements
• Tax returns from the past three years (including schedules)
• Recent pay stubs
• Employment contract
• Mortgage and car loan statements
• Life, health, and car insurance policies
• Statements for any personal or secured loans
• A list of monthly bills and average costs

Estate Planning Documents

• Last will and testament
• Living will
• Trust documents
• Powers of attorney
• Advance healthcare directives
• Guardianship paperwork

Ownership & Asset Information

• Real estate deeds and appraisals
• A list of vehicles and their estimated values (e.g., Kelley Blue Book)
• An inventory of valuable personal property (e.g., antiques, jewelry, heirlooms)

Potential Evidence

You may also want to bring documentation that could be relevant to your case:

• Text messages or emails
• Voicemails
• Police reports
• Video or audio recordings

If you don’t have access to everything, don’t worry. Bring what you can, and your attorney can help you obtain the rest later.

Questions to Ask During Your Divorce Consultation

Your consultation is also your opportunity to evaluate whether the attorney is the right fit for your needs. Preparing a list of thoughtful questions can help you feel more confident in your decision. Consider asking:

• How many years of experience do you have handling Indiana divorce cases?
• Do you handle other types of cases besides family law?
• Will you be the attorney handling my case from start to finish?
• How can I reach you with questions during the process?
• What could cause my divorce to become more expensive?
• What level of involvement do you expect from your clients?
• What makes you the best choice for handling my divorce?

You may also ask more personal or off-topic questions to get a sense of the attorney’s personality and communication style. Divorce is an emotionally complex process, and feeling comfortable with your lawyer is essential.

Schedule a Confidential Divorce Consultation with Eskew Law

If you are considering divorce or have questions about the process, contact Eskew Law to schedule a confidential, no-obligation consultation. We take a practical and compassionate approach to family law and are committed to helping you achieve your goals while making the process as smooth as possible.

Our attorneys have more than a decade of experience advocating for clients across Indiana. Initial consultations are offered at a reduced rate of $100 and typically last about an hour, depending on the complexity of your case.

Let’s work together to help you move forward—on your terms.