February 28, 2024

5 Questions Your Divorce Attorney Will Ask You at Your First Consultation

When you got married, you may not have planned to one day divorce the love of your life. However, according to World Population Review, about 50% of American marriages end in divorce, so you're not alone. Protect your rights and get a divorce attorney to represent you. Here are questions you can expect from a divorce attorney.

1. Why Are You Getting a Divorce?

Don't be surprised if the first question your lawyer asks is regarding the reason for your divorce. According to a U.S. Census Bureau survey, over 43% of divorcing couples cite incompatibility as a reason, while 28% cite infidelity, and another 22% say finances. The reason for your divorce isn't just for the lawyer's curiosity as it must be noted in your official filing.

2. Do You Have Children?

Unfortunately, one of the messiest parts of any divorce can involve children. Custody battles often take place during messy divorces. Your lawyer will want to know if you plan to seek full or shared custody. If you plan to give your spouse full custody, you may want to work out visitation arrangements during the divorce procedure.

3. What Type of Shared Assets Do You Have?

It's essential to understand what your financial standing is at this time. Do your assets include properties, shared bank accounts, or investment accounts? Do you own a business together?

4. How Long Were You Married?

The length of your marriage plays a major factor in the final division of assets. If you live in a state with communal property, like Texas, you can expect to automatically share assets.

5. What Is Your Relationship With Your Spouse?

Of course, your divorce attorney wants an honest viewpoint on your relationship with your spouse. All divorces aren't contentious, but when they are, it could make for a long, drawn-out court trial. However, if you have an amicable split, you can make things easy on yourself and your household by dissolving the marriage through mediation. With mediation, you and your spouse can avoid a court trial and come to a settlement. Mediation is often faster and less stressful.

Going through a divorce is tough on any household. When you do a consultation with a local divorce attorney, expect a series of questions so they can see how to plan such a case. If you need professional help ending your marriage, contact us at The Law Office of Arthur J. White III, P.C. for a consultation.

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Preparing for Mediation: What to Expect and How to Succeed

By Analytics Import • May 29, 2025

Mediation offers an alternative to traditional litigation, providing parties with a chance for resolution without the need for a courtroom battle. Understanding what to expect during mediation and preparing adequately is crucial for anyone seeking a successful outcome. This process involves a neutral third party who assists in negotiating a mutually agreeable solution between the parties involved. Whether you are working independently or through a divorce lawyer, getting ready for mediation requires a strategic approach and a clear understanding of your own goals and those of the opposing party. Understanding the Mediation Process with a Divorce Lawyer The mediation process often begins with each party providing an opening statement, outlining their position and goals. It is essential to prepare these statements ahead of time, focusing on facts and desired outcomes rather than emotions or confrontational language. A well-prepared statement can set the tone for a productive session and open the door for constructive dialogue. A divorce lawyer can assist in crafting a statement that is clear, persuasive, and aligned with your best interests. Remember that the goal of mediation is not to "win" but to reach a mutually satisfactory agreement that addresses the concerns of both parties. Exploring Possible Solutions During Mediation Throughout the mediation, the mediator plays a pivotal role in guiding discussions, identifying potential solutions, and helping manage emotions. According to the American Bar Association (ABA), a good mediator typically has a success rate of at least 75% in pretrial disputes. This impressive statistic underscores the importance of choosing a qualified mediator who can facilitate effective negotiations. Working with a divorce lawyer during this stage ensures your rights and priorities are properly represented, helping you navigate complex issues like parenting arrangements or property division with clarity. Why Flexibility Matters in Mediation Another key element to successful mediation is flexibility. Being open to alternative solutions and remaining adaptable to new ideas can lead to more efficient problem-solving. It's vital to enter mediation with a clear understanding of your bottom line, but also a willingness to make reasonable concessions. A skilled divorce lawyer can help you define those boundaries and adjust your approach as discussions unfold. Flexibility can often mean the difference between resolution and an impasse, paving a path toward a settlement that meets the needs of all parties involved. Preparing for Mediation with Expert Legal Guidance Preparing for mediation requires a combination of strategic planning, effective communication, and an open mind. By focusing on facts, seeking a skilled mediator, and remaining adaptable, you increase your chances of a favorable outcome. Mediation presents an opportunity to resolve disputes amicably, efficiently, and often with a high success rate, benefiting all parties by avoiding the stress and expense of litigation. Ready to approach mediation with confidence? Contact the Law Office of Arthur J. White III, P.C. for experienced legal guidance that helps you prepare, communicate effectively, and achieve the best possible resolution.