5 Questions to Ask During a Divorce or Custody Consultation (And Why They Matter)
When someone schedules a divorce or custody consultation, they are usually stepping into one of the most stressful and uncertain seasons of their life. The consultation is not simply a meeting. It is an opportunity to gather information, understand options, and determine whether the attorney across the table is the right fit for the road ahead. Potential clients often worry about what to ask, or they feel pressure to cover everything at once. The truth is that the most helpful consultations are focused, intentional, and guided by thoughtful questions.
Below are key questions I encourage potential clients to ask during a divorce or custody consultation, along with why the answers benefit both the client and the attorney.
QUESTION #1:
“What issues do you see as the most important in my case right now?”
This question helps the attorney identify legal priorities early. Safety concerns, jurisdictional problems, financial stability, or child-related disputes may require immediate attention, while other issues can be addressed over time.
Why this helps the potential client: It brings clarity and direction. The potential client leaves the consultation understanding what matters first and what the likely path forward looks like.
Why this helps the attorney: It allows the attorney to triage the case, assess urgency, and begin forming a strategy grounded in facts rather than assumptions or emotion.
QUESTION #2:
“What are the likely options or paths my case could take?”
Every divorce or custody case can follow more than one route. Litigation, mediation, negotiated settlement, parent coordination, or hybrid approaches may all be viable, depending on the circumstances.
Why this helps the potential client: The potential client gains a realistic understanding of process, potential outcomes, timeline, emotional impact, and cost considerations.
Why this helps the attorney: It opens the door to a meaningful discussion about risk, goals, conflict level, and decision-making preferences so recommendations are tailored instead of generic.
QUESTION #3:
“What information or documents would help you evaluate my case more fully?”
The quality of early legal advice depends on the quality of the information provided. Financial records, prior court orders, parenting schedules, and communications between the parties often shape strategy in significant ways.
Why this helps the potential client: The potential client knows what to gather, why it matters, and how preparation can strengthen the consultation and the case.
Why this helps the attorney: It supports accurate analysis and reduces surprises later in the process, leading to a more efficient start to representation.
QUESTION #4:
“What should I avoid doing right now that could negatively affect my case?”
Sometimes the biggest risks come from well-intended but reactive decisions. Social media posts, financial changes, emotional messages, or sudden parenting shifts can create unnecessary complications.
Why this helps the potential client: It provides guardrails and helps prevent avoidable mistakes that may harm credibility or litigation strategy.
Why this helps the attorney: It establishes expectations early and reinforces best practices for communication and decision-making during the case.
QUESTION #5:
“What does working with your firm look like if I decide to move forward?”
A consultation is not only about legal advice. It is also about whether the professional relationship will function well during a difficult and personal process.
Why this helps the potential client: The potential client gains insight into communication style, fee structure, timelines, and overall approach, which supports an informed decision about fit and trust.
Why this helps the attorney: It creates transparency, alignment, and mutual understanding, which leads to a stronger and more collaborative working relationship.
Final Thoughts
A consultation is not about having every answer on day one. It is about asking the right questions so that both the potential client and the attorney begin the process with clarity, honesty, and purpose. These questions help the potential client feel informed and grounded, and they help the attorney develop a clearer picture of the case, the goals, and the potential path forward. Divorce and custody cases are challenging, but a thoughtful consultation can transform uncertainty into a plan.
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.
