10 Documents to Gather Before a Divorce or Custody Consultation
Bringing the right documents to a divorce or custody consultation (or having them available to you) can make the meeting significantly more productive. Good preparation allows the attorney to review accurate information instead of rough estimates or assumptions, and it helps the potential client feel more organized and confident walking into an unfamiliar process.
It is important to understand that the attorney will not review every document in detail during the consultation. The consultation is primarily a conversation focused on legal issues, goals, and next steps. However, having these materials readily available can be extremely helpful. They allow the attorney to confirm key facts, spot potential legal issues earlier, and provide more accurate, tailored guidance when a specific question arises.
Even if every item is not available yet, gathering as much of the following information as reasonably possible creates a stronger foundation for meaningful discussion.
Here are ten categories of documents that are especially helpful to bring to a consultation, and why they matter.
1. PRIOR COURT ORDERS AND AGREEMENTS
This includes divorce decrees, custody orders, parenting plans, protective orders, and child support orders.
Why this matters: The attorney must understand any existing legal framework before discussing changes, risks, or strategy. These documents reveal history, obligations, and opportunities for modification.
2. RECENT PAY STUBS AND INCOME RECORDS
Bring income documents for both parties if available, including bonuses or commission records.
Why this matters: Income drives decisions about support, fees, and immediate financial stability. It helps the attorney assess cash-flow realities rather than broad estimates.
3. FEDERAL AND STATE TAX RETURNS (Past Two Years)
W-2s, 1099s, schedules, and business returns if one or both parties are self-employed.
Why this matters: Tax filings provide a clearer financial picture, reveal income trends, and may identify assets or financial activity that does not appear elsewhere.
4. BANK AND CREDIT CARD STATEMENTS
Checking, savings, credit cards, and joint or individual accounts.
Why this matters: Spending patterns, transfers, debts, and account balances often influence negotiations, support claims, and financial planning during separation.
5. RETIREMENT, PENSION, AND INVESTMENT STATEMENTS
401(k)s, IRAs, pensions, brokerage accounts, stock options, or investment portfolios.
Why this matters: Retirement and investment assets can be among the largest marital assets, and the attorney needs accurate information to discuss division and valuation.
6. MORTGAGE, LEASE, AND REAL ESTATE RECORDS
Deeds, settlement statements, mortgage balances, property tax records, or lease agreements.
Why this matters: Housing stability is often central in both divorce and custody cases. These records help evaluate equity, affordability, and practical living arrangements.
7. CHILD-RELATED RECORDS
School schedules, report cards, extracurricular calendars, childcare expenses, and medical or therapy records when relevant.
Why this matters: Custody decisions must consider the children’s routines, needs, and stability. These records support informed, child-focused discussion rather than assumptions.
8. HEALTH INSURANCE AND MEDICAL EXPENSE INFORMATION
Insurance plans, premium costs, and records of ongoing medical needs for either parent or the children.
Why this matters: Health coverage and medical costs affect support, budgeting, and long-term planning during and after the case.
9. COMMUNICATIONS BETWEEN THE PARTIES
Relevant emails, texts, parenting-app messages, or written exchanges regarding schedules, finances, or disputes.
Why this matters: Tone, patterns, and communication history can shape litigation risk, credibility issues, and conflict-management strategies.
10. ANY EXISTING TIMELINE OR PERSONAL NOTES ABOUT THE CASE
A brief summary of major events, concerns, or incidents you want the attorney to understand.
Why this matters: A timeline helps the attorney see context, patterns, and turning points without relying solely on memory in the moment.
Why Preparation Makes a Difference
When a potential client arrives prepared, the consultation becomes more focused, efficient, and productive. The potential client gains clearer, more tailored guidance, and the attorney can offer analysis based on real information instead of speculation. Good preparation strengthens strategy from the very beginning.
If you are preparing for a divorce or custody consultation and want guidance that is practical, informed, and focused on helping you move forward with stability and confidence, schedule a consultation with Zadjura Family Law. Call 410-562-9335 or click here to request a consultation.
