How to Prepare for Your First Family Law Consultation

Taking the first step to meet with a family lawyer can feel overwhelming, especially during a period of emotional stress. At Clarity Legal Group, we aim to make this process as smooth and supportive as possible. Here's how you can best prepare for your first family law consultation to make the most of your time and ensure you're on the path to resolution.

What to Expect in Your Initial Consultation

During your first meeting, your solicitor will ask questions about your relationship history, children (if any), financial situation, and what outcomes you're hoping to achieve. This is also your opportunity to ask questions and ensure you feel confident moving forward.

Our consultations are designed to provide:

- Clear guidance on your legal position

- An outline of potential options and pathways forward

- Transparent pricing with a fixed-fee structure

What to Bring to Your Consultation

Bringing the right documents helps your solicitor understand your situation and offer accurate advice. Consider gathering the following:

1. Identification (Driver licence or passport)

2. Marriage certificate or de facto registration

3. Recent correspondence with your ex-partner (emails, texts, etc.)

4. Any existing court orders or agreements

5. A list of assets and liabilities (property, superannuation, debts)

6. Parenting schedules or concerns (if applicable)

7. Child support or financial support documentation

Organise Your Thoughts

Before your appointment, take some time to reflect on:

- What issues are most important to you (e.g., parenting, financial settlement)

- What outcomes you want to achieve

- Any urgent concerns (e.g., relocation, domestic violence, child safety)

Having clarity on your goals helps your solicitor develop an effective legal strategy tailored to your needs.

Questions to Ask Your Lawyer

It's normal to have lots of questions in your first meeting. Some important ones might include:

- What are my rights under family law?

- How long will the process take?

- What are the potential costs?

- What happens next after this consultation?

- How will we communicate throughout the process?

Benefits of Clarity Legal Group's Approach

We know that legal issues related to separation and family law can be confusing and emotionally charged. That’s why we prioritise:

- Fixed-fee pricing for cost certainty

- Personalised, compassionate support

- Strategic planning with a focus on resolution

We also maintain open lines of communication through email, phone, and in-person meetings, with dedicated legal support staff available to assist throughout your matter.

After the Consultation: What Happens Next?

Following your initial meeting, your solicitor will provide a summary of the advice, strategy, and next steps. You will receive a written estimate of fees for each stage and a plan tailored to your goals.

You can then decide whether to formally engage our services and move forward. At this stage, we begin taking action to protect your interests, whether that involves negotiation, mediation, or court proceedings.

We are Family Court solicitors who are experienced in providing divorce and separation legal advice in parenting and financial disputes. We have many years experience in court advocacy and dealing with matters involving complicated parenting and property disputes.

Contact us for more information or to book an initial consultation to discuss your options.