Questions to ask your solicitor

When consulting with a solicitor (lawyer) about a divorce, it's important to gather relevant information and address key concerns. Here are some questions you may want to ask:

1.Experience and Specialisation:

• What is your experience in handling divorce cases?
• Do you specialise in family law or have a significant portion of your practice dedicated to divorce cases?

2. Legal Process:

• What is the legal process for obtaining a divorce in my country?
• How long does the divorce process typically take?

3. Grounds for Divorce:

• What are the grounds for divorce in my jurisdiction, and how do they apply to my situation? In the UK Under the new law 'No Fault", couples can divorce without assigning blame or proving fault. Instead of relying on grounds such as adultery or unreasonable behavior, spouses can simply state that the marriage has irretrievably broken down. There is also an option for joint applications, where both parties can apply for the divorce together.

4. Options for Resolving Disputes:

• What are my options for resolving disputes with my spouse (e.g., mediation)?

5. Child Custody and Support:

• How is child custody determined, and what factors are considered?
• How is child support calculated?

6. Property Division:

• How is property and assets typically divided during a divorce?
• What should I do to prepare for the property division process?

7. Spousal Support:

• How is maintenance determined, and under what circumstances is it awarded?

8. Financial Implications:

• What financial information will I need to provide during the divorce process?
• How can I protect my financial interests during the divorce?

9. Legal Fees and Costs:

• What are your fees and how are they structured?
• Are there any potential additional costs I should be aware of?

10. Communication and Updates:

• How often will we communicate, and what is the best way to reach you?
• What is your approach to keeping clients informed about the progress of their case?

11. Potential Outcomes:

• What are the potential outcomes of my case, given the specifics of my situation?
• Are there any potential challenges or complications I should be aware of?

12. Documentation Needed:

• What documents do I need to gather and provide for the divorce proceedings?

Remember, every divorce case is unique, and the specific questions you ask may depend on your individual circumstances. It's also important to establish good communication with your solicitor and feel comfortable discussing your concerns and priorities.