Make the most out of your free initial legal consultation. Most offers are for 30 minutes; come well prepared if you can do so.

Meet with a divorce lawyer for the first time and:

1. Prepare a list of questions in advance so that your most immediate and important "burning questions" can be addressed. Try to be as specific as possible about your situation and any specific concerns you may have about your divorce.

2. Prepare a list of property, debts, assets, real estate, bills, retirement, pension, business ownership, stocks, investments. This will probably take some time, but it's worth it. Your last tax return(s) will be helpful. A form that may help you get organized is a Schedule of Assets and Debts that you can find here

3. Bring information about your spouse, children, monthly bills, income, .and any premarital agreements. Basic information such as name, place of work, a W2 or paycheck, inheritances, dates of birth (ages), school and activity information.

4. Bring any legal documents, subpoenas, complaints, demand letters - any documentation that is related (or you believe may be related - ASK!) to your case.

5. Flag any deadlines that you are facing such as court dates, responses, answers to interrogatories, deposition dates, court dates, or any other appointments that Holdt Garver should know about immediately.