What Will a Divorce Lawyer Ask Me?

Questions You Can Expect From Your Consultation With a Divorce Lawyer in Missouri

What Caused Your Divorce?

Marriages end for a variety of different reasons, including irreconcilable differences. Missouri is a no-fault state, meaning one spouse can file for divorce with no specific reason. Further, a spouse does not have to prove marital misconduct from either party to file for divorce. When you and your spouse end the marriage on these terms and already agree on most issues, you may wish to pursue an uncontested divorce. 

However, marriages can also end due to reasons like adultery, addiction or abuse. If this is the case, it’s important for your divorce attorney to have a full understanding of what happened. These factors can help determine alimony, or monetary payments from one spouse to another for a set period of time. Alimony, otherwise known as spousal support, is determined by several factors, including:

• The financial stability of each spouse.
• The debts and assets of each spouse. 
• The conduct of spouses during the marriage. 

If you were significantly wronged by your spouse, you may be awarded more alimony. So, don’t shy away from providing your divorce lawyer with the full context about why your marriage is ending.

Are You And Your Spouse Separated?

Many couples live apart before formally going through the divorce process. Everyone moves at their own pace, and sometimes this physical separation is a period when couples either consider reconciliation or mentally prepare for a divorce. Either way, it’s important for your divorce lawyer to know your current living situation and how you wound up there.

If you and your spouse are currently living apart, it’s important for your lawyer to note how long you’ve been separated for. There is a difference between a short-term separation and a legal one. The state of Missouri recognizes legal separation, which some couples pursue before their actual annulment or divorce. Legal separations are court-ordered and allow you to protect your marital assets. If you are legally separated, it’s important for your divorce lawyer to know the terms and rules ordered by the judge. 

Do You And Your Spouse Have Children Together?

If you and your spouse share children who are minors, they will inevitably become a huge factor in your divorce. Their best interest is your priority when figuring out the terms of your divorce, especially if the children are young. Your divorce lawyer will have to understand your wishes for child custody and, if applicable, child support. 

Child custody breaks down into physical and legal custody. 

• Legal custody involves the decision-making power for things like the child’s education and healthcare. 
• Physical custody refers to the time children spend with each parent. You and your spouse can break down time with your children based on weekdays, weekends, holidays and more. 

In many cases, parents will seek joint legal and physical custody, but sometimes, there are serious circumstances that can warrant one parent pursuing sole custody of children. 

What Are Your Priorities For The Outcome of Your Divorce?

Your divorce attorney is the one who will be making a case to fight for your wishes, so share your top priorities with them from the beginning. For example, if you want full legal custody of your children and to keep your marital home, your divorce attorney can build an argument that puts those goals first.

Trusted Divorce Lawyers in Missouri

Choose Harper, Evans, Hilbrenner & Netemeyer as Your Missouri Family Lawyers as You Navigate Divorce, Child Support & Alimony

If you or your spouse are filing for divorce in Missouri, turn to the trusted divorce lawyers at Harper, Evans, Hilbrenner & Netemeyer. We rely on compassion and experience to provide an exceptional standard of service to our clients during this difficult time. Our trusted team is composed of expert family lawyers, divorce lawyers and child custody lawyers in Missouri. To schedule your initial consultation, contact us today.

Filing for divorce in Missouri? Contact our divorce lawyers for compassionate family law services. We can schedule your first consultation with a divorce lawyer today. Call (573) 442-1660.

We’re proud to represent clients across Boone and the surrounding counties including Audrain, Callaway, Cole, Randolph, Monroe, and Saline, MO.