A family law consultation usually means you’re involved in a divorce, guardianship, or adoption, life-changing events that can provoke strong emotions. Good preparation will help to organize your thoughts and make the meeting more productive and efficient.
An experienced family law attorney may send an intake form for you to complete before your first meeting to better understand your situation. Completing this form to the best of your ability and bringing all of the necessary paperwork will provide essential information about your path going forward.
Basic Information for Any Family Law Issue
Whether adoption, guardianship, or divorce is the issue you’re concerned about, understand that information shared with an attorney during a consultation is confidential under attorney-client privilege. Bring a government-issued identification, as well as basic identifying information for each person involved (full name, birthdate, and Social Security number). A marriage certificate is necessary for divorces. If court orders related to custody are already in force, make a copy for the attorney.
If You Are Pursuing Adoption
Adoption in Arizona is governed by Title 8 of the Arizona Revised Statutes, which outlines the legal requirements for both agency and independent adoptions, stepparent adoptions, and adoptions through the foster care system. The state operates on the standard of the best interests of the child, which guides decision making. In addition, candidates previously involved in domestic violence, drug trafficking, or human trafficking are not eligible to adopt. The process requires extensive background checks, home studies, and documentation of financial stability. For your first consultation, bring proof of residence and financial records that demonstrate your ability to care for a child. If adopting a stepchild or relative, bring records of any established relationship. If the child is already in your care, such as through foster parenting, bring those documents as well. Your attorney and the court will need information that presents a clear picture of your home environment and relationship with the child.
If You Are Seeking Guardianship
The probate court in Arizona establishes guardianships by granting non-parents the legal authority to care for a minor child or an incapacitated adult. According to the Arizona Judicial Branch, petitioners for guardianship must demonstrate that the arrangement is in the best interest of the ward and that existing legal guardians or parents are unable or unfit to serve in that role. When consulting with a family law attorney, bring documentation of your relationship to the person, evidence of the current guardian or parent’s incapacity, absence, or unfitness, including medical records, court records, or police reports. If any powers of attorney or prior guardianship orders exist, bring copies. Financial records may also be necessary, particularly if managing the ward’s assets is involved.
If You Are Getting a Divorce
Arizona is a community property state, meaning that most assets and debts acquired during a marriage are considered jointly owned. The Arizona Supreme Court requires both parties in a divorce to complete an Affidavit of Financial Information, releasing thorough financial documentation to the court and the other party in the matter. When meeting with your legal representative, bring the following:
- recent pay stubs
- date of separation
- three years of federal tax returns
- bank and retirement account statements
- documentation of all debts
- any prenuptial agreement
- vehicle titles
- copies of mortgage documents
- real estate deeds
If your divorce affects minor children, bring existing parenting plans, school and medical records, and documentation of each parent’s involvement in the child’s daily life. Note that domestic violence or substance abuse impacts parenting time; if these are a factor, also bring police reports or protective orders.
Bring Your Questions
Making a list of questions for your attorney helps to clarify issues related to family law. Common concerns include the timeline of the process, what temporary orders may be available, and the attorney’s fee structure.
Making the Most of Your Legal Consultation
A well-prepared client makes a consultation with Webster Family Law attorneys more focused and effective. They provide guidance on the process of adoption, divorce, and guardianship while applying Arizona law to your specific situation. Call for a consultation today to understand your next steps.