What Happens During a Consultation With a California Divorce Lawyer?
For many spouses, a consultation with a California divorce lawyer represents the first step toward divorce. Many spouses schedule these consultations before even deciding to move forward with a divorce. At the most basic level, a consultation represents an opportunity to share and receive information. Here’s what to expect during an initial meeting with a divorce attorney:
What is a Consultation?
A consultation is an initial meeting with a lawyer. This meeting usually takes place in a law office, and it is completely private. In fact, attorneys are bound by law to keep all discussions with potential clients totally confidential – even if the clients decide not to move forward with divorce. Moving ahead with a divorce is optional, and a consultation involves no obligation to hire a lawyer in the future. Many spouses consult with numerous lawyers before narrowing down their choices and hiring one they would like to work with in the future.
What Happens During a Consultation?
In many ways, conversations that occur during consultations depend entirely on each situation. The client can discuss any subject that they think is relevant to the future divorce, while the attorney might also ask specific questions based on what they hear.
While legal advice during consultations might be limited, attorneys may express their professional opinions. They might also help spouses understand what to expect if they decide to move forward with a divorce, including any potential challenges or opportunities.
Many spouses might be reluctant to move forward with divorce because they are unfamiliar with the legal system. These misunderstandings might be heightened by language barriers and other concerns – many of which can be addressed by divorce lawyers in Riverside. One of the key benefits of a consultation is to provide reassurance. During consultations, spouses might learn about the assets they stand to receive during property division. They might also learn about additional forms of protection, such as restraining orders.
A Consultation Lets Spouses Get to Know Lawyers
In many ways, consultations occur in the same way as meeting a new person. While the attorney-client relationship is a professional one, it is important for spouses to feel comfortable with their divorce lawyers. A consultation might serve as an opportunity to gauge a lawyer’s personality, communication skills, and philosophy toward divorce law in California.
Although divorcing spouses might not be legal experts, they can still listen to their instincts and feelings after these initial meetings. After consultation, it is important for spouses to ask whether they see themselves working effectively alongside the attorney for weeks, months, or even years. This is how long some divorces can take to resolve.
Book a Consultation With a Divorce Lawyer in Riverside
Booking a consultation with a divorce lawyer in Riverside is relatively straightforward. Reach out to the Knez Law Firm, and you can schedule this initial meeting at your convenience. Although online research helps you understand what to expect in an upcoming consultation, there is only one real way to find out. Contact us today to learn more about the most appropriate next steps.
Andrew J. Knez earned his Bachelor of Arts degrees in Political Science and Criminal Justice from California State University, Fullerton. During his college years, he was a member of the Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity and interned at the College Legal Clinic, where he assisted underprivileged communities in obtaining affordable legal services. Mr. Knez credits this experience with fostering his appreciation for the law and its positive impact on society. Additionally, during college, Mr. Knez worked as a paralegal, gaining hands-on experience in civil litigation. Learn more here.