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first meeting with a divorce attorney in RI

What to Bring to Your First Family Law Consultation in Rhode Island

Preparing for your first meeting with a Rhode Island family law attorney can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re dealing with divorce, custody, or another personal legal matter. At the Law Office of Timothy M. Sweet, we want you to feel comfortable, informed, and prepared from the moment you walk in.

Here’s what to bring to a family law consultation in Rhode Island so we can make the most of your time and start moving forward.

Personal Information

Start by bringing basic details that help us understand your situation:

  • A government-issued photo ID

  • Contact information for you and the opposing party

  • Marriage certificate (if applicable)

  • A list of important dates, such as your wedding date, separation date, or court dates

Legal Documents

If you have any existing legal paperwork, please bring copies. This may include:

  • Divorce filings or summons

  • Custody or visitation orders

  • Restraining orders or police reports

  • Prenuptial or postnuptial agreements

  • Any letters, emails, or legal correspondence from the other party’s attorney

Having these documents allows us to quickly assess where things stand and offer guidance tailored to your circumstances.

Financial Information

One of the most important parts of a divorce case or custody matter is understanding the financial picture. Please bring:

  • Recent pay stubs or income verification

  • Tax returns from the last two to three years

  • Bank account and credit card statements

  • Mortgage and loan documents

  • Retirement account summaries

  • A list of assets and debts

If you’re unsure which documents are necessary, just bring what you can. We will help fill in the gaps and tell you what else may be needed.

Information Related to Children

If your case involves children, be prepared to share:

  • Existing child custody or parenting agreements

  • A list of your child’s day-to-day expenses

  • Details about schooling, medical needs, or extracurricular activities

  • Any relevant communications about co-parenting

Understanding your child’s needs helps us build a strong case focused on their best interests.

Questions and Goals

We also encourage you to bring a list of questions. Think about:

  • What outcomes you hope to achieve

  • What concerns you have about the process

  • What you want life to look like after this chapter ends

Writing these down helps ensure we cover what matters most to you during the consultation.

What to Expect at the First Meeting

During your consultation, we’ll sit down to discuss your situation in detail. You’ll have the opportunity to share your story, ask questions, and begin to understand your legal options. Everything you share is confidential. Whether you’re just starting to explore your options or need to act quickly, we’re here to provide honest, informed advice.

We’re Here to Help

If you’re wondering what to bring to a family law consultation in Rhode Island, the most important thing is this: bring yourself, and bring your story. We’ll take it from there.

To schedule your first meeting with a family law attorney in Rhode Island, contact us today. We’re here to help you take the next step with clarity and compassion.

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