How to prepare for a first meeting with a family lawyer

Family breakdown is a challenging time for all with much uncertainty over how the dust will settle. For those grappling with this instability, we would recommend seeking an initial consultation with a family lawyer.

This meeting can help to provide you with both reassurance and the specific legal advice relevant to your personal circumstances. Given the anxiety that uncertainty and a lack of knowledge can induce, it is never too early to seek legal support, even if after an initial meeting with a family solicitor you decide not to move forward with a divorce or separation.

What to expect from an initial consultation at Tisshaws

At Tisshaws we offer an initial 60-minute consultation with an experienced family lawyer for £150 (incl. VAT). While some solicitors offer a free 30-minute meeting, we don’t feel this is long enough to consider your specific circumstances and to explain the legal advice that is appropriate to your personal circumstances.

The meeting is also a chance for you to get to know us, learn about our experience in handling cases such as yours, discover how we work with you, discuss your options, potential timescales and give an indication of costs and payment methods.

Rest assured that everything discussed at the meeting is confidential and there is no obligation to use us after this meeting if you decide you no longer wish to move forward or feel we are not the best fit for you.

What to bring to an initial meeting

To help with any nerves we would suggest you write down a list of all the questions and queries you have. And please never worry about a question being too basic, we are here to support you.

More specifically, please bring:

• A brief chronology of important dates, such as marriage and separation
• ID such as a passport or driving licence
• A bank statement or utility bill less than two months old which shows your address
• If seeking divorce advice, your marriage or civil partnership certificate
• Any paperwork from other solicitors, organisations or the courts relevant to the case
• Knowledge of and an overview of your general financial situation – salaries, pensions, savings, debts, mortgages etc.

Can I bring a friend?

You are welcome to bring a trusted friend, but you will need to be prepared to answer some highly personal questions in front of them. It is also important that the friend does not offer their own perspective on your situation, as the meeting is designed to concentrate on you alone.

Can I bring my children?

We would advise against bringing your children unless childcare issues make it impossible. Children can be distracting and are also able to pick up on the vibe, even if they cannot understand what is being discussed, which can be upsetting.

If you are struggling with issues arising from separation and divorce, as mentioned above we offer a no obligation initial consultation for a fixed fee of £150 (incl. VAT), for up to one hour. At this meeting, we can advise you on all the issues relating to your personal circumstances, allowing you to make informed decisions moving forward.

To book an appointment please call 01444 472700, email us at info@tisshawssolicitors.co.uk or complete the form below.