Preparing for a divorce can be emotionally taxing and can make your first meeting with a divorce attorney feel overwhelming. Being well-prepared can help the attorney better understand your situation, save time, and set a good tone for your case.
This initial meeting provides you with an opportunity to ask questions and learn what your rights, responsibilities, and legal choices are for your situation. For divorces in Maryland, the following checklist covers required and relevant documents, information, and questions to have on hand for that initial meeting.
What to Expect from the Meeting
During your first meeting, your attorney will review the documents you’ve provided to understand your situation. They’ll ask about your goals regarding finances, custody, and overall timing, so it’s helpful to have thought through your priorities.
The attorney will also explain how Maryland law applies, including how marital and non-marital property are treated. In Maryland, marital property typically includes any property acquired during the marriage, regardless of whose name is on the title.
Finally, they’ll walk you through which filings will be required for your situation, such as the appropriate financial statement and any parenting forms.
Being direct and concise in your answers and your questions makes it easier for an attorney to answer as many possible during this first meeting. Having the correct information available for the attorney ensure more accurate answers.
Why Preparation Matters
Maryland law requires certain forms and disclosures in family law cases. For example, if you are pursuing or will be asked for child support, alimony, or property division, you may need to file one of two financial statements:
- Form CC‑DR‑030 if your combined monthly income is $30,000 or less
- Form CC‑DR‑031 if it is more than $30,000
If children are involved, Maryland courts also require a Parenting Plan (Form CC‑DR‑109). In cases involving a disagreement on child issues, a Joint Statement of the Parties Concerning Decision‑Making Authority and Parenting Time (Form CC‑DR‑110) will be required.
Knowing which documents and information to bring helps your attorney give you better guidance from the start.
Checklist to Avoid Common Mistakes
Arriving without financial documents or paperwork related to children can limit how much your attorney can accomplish, especially when custody is involved. It’s also helpful to have at least a basic outline of a parenting plan if children are part of the situation.
Prepare Documents, Information, and Questions
Bring physical or digital copies, organized clearly and concisely. Here’s what tends to be most helpful:
- Personal and identification details
Names, dates of birth, residence addresses, Social Security numbers (if comfortable sharing), marriage certificate, and, if applicable, previously issued legal documents like name change records or prenuptial agreements. - Children’s information
For any minors involved, bring their birth certificates, school details, medical needs, and any existing custody or visitation orders. - Financial records
Include pay stubs, proof of income, bank statements, retirement account info, loan details, and tax returns from the past five years. - Assets and debts
Provide deeds, vehicle titles, business ownership documents, real property valuations, and statements for liabilities such as credit cards, mortgages, or student loans. - Expenses documentation
Monthly expenses, such as utilities, childcare, and healthcare bills, help build a picture of financial needs. - Parenting plan materials
Reviewing the Maryland Parenting Plan Tool (Form CC‑DR‑109) in advance can help you think through custody schedules, decision-making, and holidays. - Questions you want answered
Prepare a list of what you want to know, such as how property is divided, whether alimony might apply, or what to expect with custody or mediation. Be sure to also ask your attorney about important details such as timelines, fee structure, and communication processes. - Court forms if already served or filed
If your spouse has already filed, bring copies of petitions, complaints, or any temporary orders you’ve received.
Meet with Maryland’s Top Divorce Attorneys
Milstein Siegel has decades of experience representing Maryland clients in divorce and family law matters. Our team provides straightforward legal advice, practical guidance, and a client-focused approach designed to meet your goals.
Whether your case involves complex property division, child custody, or a cooperative separation, our attorneys will work closely with you to protect your interests and help you move forward with confidence.
If you’re preparing for divorce or have been served with legal documents, don’t wait. Contact Milstein Siegel online or call (443) 230-4674 to arrange a consultation and move forward with a reliable divorce attorney in Maryland by your side.