The decision to meet with a divorce attorney is rarely made lightly. Whether you’re contemplating divorce, preparing to file, or responding to your spouse’s petition, the first meeting with your attorney sets the tone for the rest of your case. It’s an opportunity to share your story, gain legal insight, and begin building the strategy that will guide your next chapter.
But if you’re like most people, the lead-up to that first consultation can feel overwhelming. What should you bring? What will your lawyer ask? How can you prepare so the meeting is as productive as possible?
As an experienced Tampa divorce lawyer, I’ve met with hundreds of clients at the very beginning of their divorce journeys. The truth is, the more you prepare before walking into that meeting, the more you’ll walk away with—answers, clarity, and a sense of direction.
This guide will walk you through everything you should bring to your initial consultation, what to expect during the meeting, and how to make the most of your time with your Tampa divorce lawyer.
Why the First Consultation Matters
Think of your initial consultation as a foundation-setting meeting. It’s your chance to:
- Tell your story and ask questions
- Receive early legal advice tailored to your situation
- Discuss your goals and fears
- Learn your rights and obligations under Florida law
- Determine whether the attorney is the right fit for your needs
While your Tampa divorce lawyer can’t resolve your entire case in one meeting, this first step can offer you immense peace of mind and help you feel more in control of what’s ahead.
Key Documents to Bring to Your Divorce Consultation
The most common question new clients ask is: “What should I bring to my appointment?”
While you’re not expected to have every piece of information perfectly organized, bringing the right documents can help your attorney give you better and more specific legal advice. Below is a list of recommended materials to bring to your first meeting with your Tampa divorce lawyer.
1. Identification and Contact Information
Start with the basics:
- Valid photo ID (driver’s license or passport)
- A list of your contact information
- Your spouse’s full name, address, and contact info
Why this matters: Your attorney needs this information to check for conflicts of interest and to properly file court documents later.
2. Your Marriage Certificate
If you have a copy of your marriage certificate, bring it along. It helps your attorney verify the date of marriage, which is important for determining marital vs. non-marital property.
3. Any Court Documents (if a case has already been filed)
If either you or your spouse has filed for divorce, be sure to bring:
- The Petition for Dissolution of Marriage
- Any motions, notices, or temporary relief orders
- Any court correspondence or hearing dates
These documents provide essential insight into where your case stands and what actions need to be taken next.
4. Financial Disclosure Documents
One of the central components of any Florida divorce is the financial disclosure process. Even if your case hasn’t started yet, your Tampa divorce lawyer will need to understand your financial picture.
Try to bring the following for both you and your spouse, if available:
- Last 3 years of tax returns (personal and business)
- Recent pay stubs or proof of income
- Bank account statements (checking, savings, money market)
- Credit card statements
- Retirement account statements (401(k), IRA, pensions)
- Mortgage statements and property tax records
- Vehicle loan documents or titles
- Investment and brokerage account summaries
- Life insurance policies
- Any financial affidavits if already completed
Why this matters: Financial transparency is key to negotiating fair alimony, child support, and equitable distribution. Your lawyer can only advise you accurately if they know what’s at stake.
5. A List of Assets and Debts
Even if you don’t have documentation for everything yet, come prepared with a general list of what you and your spouse own and owe, including:
- Real estate (marital home, rentals, land)
- Cars, boats, RVs
- Business ownership or professional practices
- Loans, lines of credit, and personal debt
- Inheritance or gifts
- Jewelry, art, collectibles, or valuable personal property
Your Tampa divorce lawyer can help you determine what’s marital vs. non-marital property, but they need a starting point to work from.
6. Prenuptial or Postnuptial Agreements (if applicable)
If you and your spouse signed a prenup or postnup, bring a copy. These agreements often dictate how property, support, or business interests will be handled in the event of divorce.
Your lawyer will need to review the agreement for enforceability and impact on your case.
7. Child-Related Information
If you have children with your spouse, bring:
- Each child’s full name, birthdate, and school info
- Information about daycare or school expenses
- Details of any special needs, therapy, or medical care
- A proposed or current parenting plan
- A calendar of current time-sharing, if already separated
This helps your Tampa divorce lawyer evaluate custody, timesharing, and child support concerns early on.
8. History of Domestic Violence or Abuse (if any)
If there has been domestic violence, emotional abuse, or threats, be prepared to discuss them. Bring:
- Any restraining orders or injunctions
- Police reports or incident documentation
- Screenshots of threatening messages or voicemails
This is especially important if you need a temporary injunction, supervised visitation, or emergency custody orders.
9. Questions and Concerns
Finally, bring a written list of your questions. It’s easy to forget things in the moment, especially when you’re emotional. Common questions include:
- How long will the divorce process take?
- Can I stay in the marital home?
- How is alimony calculated?
- What happens to my business or retirement?
- Can I move with the kids?
- What if my spouse refuses to cooperate?
Having a list ensures you make the most of your consultation time with your Tampa divorce lawyer.
What to Expect During the Initial Consultation
Most consultations last between 60 to 90 minutes, depending on the complexity of your case. Here’s how it typically flows:
1. Telling Your Story
Your lawyer will ask questions about your marriage, current situation, and what brought you in. Be honest—even if it’s painful. Your Tampa divorce lawyer is there to help, not judge.
2. Reviewing Documents
If you’ve brought financials, agreements, or court documents, your attorney will begin reviewing them and asking clarifying questions.
3. Identifying Key Legal Issues
Based on your goals, the lawyer will discuss the major legal components of your case: property division, custody, support, alimony, and any emergency issues.
4. Explaining the Legal Process
Your lawyer will walk you through how Florida divorce works—from filing to mediation to trial—and explain what timelines and court procedures apply in Hillsborough County.
5. Discussing Strategy and Next Steps
You’ll discuss whether to file now or wait, whether temporary relief is appropriate, and how to approach early negotiations.
6. Fee Structure and Representation
Your attorney will explain how their billing works, what the initial retainer is, and what to expect in terms of ongoing legal fees.
Tips for a Successful First Meeting
- Be honest. Your lawyer can only help you if they know the full story.
- Don’t hold back. If something is bothering you—like adultery, financial abuse, or parenting issues—share it. It may be relevant legally.
- Stay focused. Avoid getting lost in emotional details. Stick to facts, goals, and key concerns.
- Bring support. It’s okay to bring a friend or family member, but keep in mind that confidentiality matters.
- Take notes. You’ll receive a lot of information. Writing things down helps you remember key takeaways.
What If I Don’t Have All the Documents?
That’s okay. Your consultation is about starting the process, not being perfectly organized. Your Tampa divorce lawyer will help you create a checklist of what to gather and guide you through the next steps.
Even just showing up with basic financial information and your questions can be extremely valuable.
Should I Consult a Lawyer if I’m Not Ready to File Yet?
Yes. It’s smart to speak with a divorce attorney even if you’re just considering your options. Early advice can:
- Help you protect assets
- Guide your behavior (e.g., financial decisions, communication)
- Set realistic expectations
- Clarify your legal rights
Consulting doesn’t mean you’re committing to divorce. It means you’re gathering information and preparing thoughtfully.
Should I Bring My Spouse to the Consultation?
No. Divorce attorneys represent one party only. If you and your spouse are interested in mediation or a collaborative divorce, each of you should have your own consultation and representation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a consultation with a Tampa divorce lawyer cost?
It varies. Some consultations are complimentary, while others are billed at the attorney’s hourly rate. It’s best to ask in advance when scheduling.
Can I hire the attorney at the consultation, or do I have to wait?
You can usually retain the lawyer at the end of the meeting by signing a fee agreement and paying a retainer.
Do I need to bring documents about my spouse’s finances too?
Yes—if you have access. The more you can provide about both parties, the better your lawyer can advise you.
Is what I say in the consultation confidential?
Yes. Even if you don’t hire the attorney, your consultation is protected by attorney-client privilege.
What happens after the consultation?
If you hire the attorney, they’ll begin drafting documents, communicating with your spouse or their lawyer, and guiding your case forward. If you don’t move forward, you still walk away with valuable legal insight.
Can I bring digital versions of documents instead of paper copies?
Absolutely. A USB drive or organized email folder is perfectly acceptable.
What if I already filed but need new representation?
Your Tampa divorce lawyer can review your case and, if you choose to hire them, file a substitution of counsel.
Can I ask about child support and alimony in the first meeting?
Yes—and you should. Your lawyer will help you understand how those issues are calculated under Florida law.
What if I’m not sure I want a divorce yet?
No problem. Your lawyer can still provide guidance, options, and strategy so you’re prepared if and when the time comes.
Will I walk away with a legal plan?
Yes. A good consultation should leave you with a clear understanding of your rights, your risks, and your next steps.
Meeting with a Tampa divorce lawyer for the first time may feel intimidating—but with the right preparation, it can also be empowering. Bringing the right documents, asking the right questions, and showing up with an open mind allows you to take charge of your future and build the roadmap you need to move forward.
At The McKinney Law Group, we take great care to ensure that your first consultation is informative, strategic, and compassionate. Whether you’re ready to file or just gathering information, we’re here to listen, advise, and advocate for you every step of the way.
If you’re ready to take the first step toward protecting your future, contact us today to schedule your confidential consultation with a trusted Tampa divorce lawyer.
The McKinney Law Group: Honest Legal Advice for Tampa Clients Considering Divorce
Not sure if it’s time to file? At The McKinney Law Group, we help Tampa individuals understand their rights and options before they take legal action. Whether you’re just gathering information or ready to move forward, we’ll give you the honest guidance you need.
We can help you:
✔ Understand what divorce would look like based on your situation
✔ Plan ahead for custody, finances, and housing
✔ Protect assets and prepare for separation responsibly
✔ Navigate Florida divorce law with clarity
✔ Explore alternatives like legal separation or postnuptial agreements
Information is power—get the insight you need to make confident choices.
Call 813-428-3400 or email [email protected] to schedule a pre-divorce consultation.