Initial consultation with a family solicitor

The first Monday of January was known as “divorce day” but it appears that the whole of January is turning into divorce month with a burgeoning demand for legal advice. If January signals the end of your marriage, know that you are not alone, and gaining the advice of an expert can be both comforting and liberating.

It may be that meeting a family solicitor for the first time can be a daunting experience, however, understanding what happens during the initial consultation and preparing appropriately can make the process much smoother.

Here’s an overview of what to expect, what to bring along, and the type of advice you’re likely to receive during your appointment.

What happens during the initial consultation? 

2. Listening to your account of your relationship and situation – your solicitor will start by gathering an overview of your situation. They’ll ask about key aspects such as:
   • The date and duration of your marriage, and whether you cohabited prior to marriage.
   • When the relationship broke down.
   • Whether there have been attempts at reconciliation.
   • Details of any children, including their ages and living arrangements.

2. Exploring your financial situation – your solicitor will ask about your financial circumstances, including income, property, pensions, savings, and debts. Understanding these details helps them advise you about the likely financial settlement and what to expect from this.

2. 2. Legal guidance – your solicitor will explain:
      • The divorce process, including how to file for divorce and the key steps involved.
      • How financial claims are dealt with in the UK, including what financial disclosure involves.
      • Options for resolving issues, such as direct discussions, negotiation, mediation, arbitration, or court proceedings.

2. 2. 4. Discussing your goals – you will be encouraged to outline your priorities and objectives within the divorce and financial arrangements, such as keeping the family home or securing spousal maintenance or achieving a clean break.

What initial legal advice will you receive at a first meeting? 

Based on the information you provide, the solicitor is likely to offer:

2. 2. 1. An overview of your legal position: They will explain your rights and entitlements under UK family law, including the principle of fairness in financial settlements.
      2. Potential outcomes: Your solicitor may give an indication of what a financial settlement could look like, although detailed advice requires full financial disclosure.
      3. Next steps: Advice will focus on immediate actions, such as starting the divorce process or gathering financial information.
      4. Options for resolution: This includes non-court options like mediation, arbitration or collaboration, and when and whether court proceedings may be necessary.

How can you prepare for a consultation with a family solicitor?

Coming prepared ensures you make the most of your consultation. Here’s what to bring along:

Personal Information

2. 2. • Your full name and contact details.
      • Your spouse’s details, including their address (if known).
      • Date and place of marriage.

Financial Details  

2. 2. • Information about income, including payslips or tax returns.
      • Details of assets like property, pensions, savings, and investments.
      • Information on debts, such as mortgages or credit cards.

Relevant Documents  

2. 2. • Any existing court orders or agreements.
      • Recent bank statements (individual and joint accounts).

Key Questions or Concerns

2. 2. • Prepare a list of questions to ensure your main concerns are addressed during the meeting.

What Happens Next?

Following the consultation, your solicitor will advise on the next steps to progress your divorce and financial claims. This might include drafting a divorce petition, preparing financial disclosure documents, or scheduling mediation sessions.

The initial consultation is the first step in resolving your legal matters. With the right preparation, it can provide clarity, confidence, and a clear plan for moving forward.

This article was brought to you by Kidd Rapinet’s family solicitors. You can book an appointment with any of the family lawyers across our other offices in Aylesbury, Canary Wharf, Farnham, High Wycombe, Maidenhead or Slough, using the form provided.  Please use the links provided to find more information on divorce or separation, child arrangements and other areas of family law.

These materials and content have been prepared for the benefit of their viewers/readers. They are intended for marketing purposes only and are of a general nature and do not constitute legal advice applicable to any particular facts or circumstances. Kidd Rapinet LLP and/or the author(s) accept no duty of care, responsibility or liability for any loss or damage which you or any third party may suffer as a result of any reliance or use by you or them of these marketing materials and content, except to the extent it is not legally possible to exclude such liability. If you require legal advice on your own situation, please contact us so we can discuss how we may assist.