When you’re facing a divorce, it can feel like your whole world is being rewritten. Your future, your finances, your family life — it’s all in transition. And while that change can be daunting, it can also be empowering — if you have the right guide. That’s where your divorce attorney comes in.
When you choose a divorce lawyer, you’re choosing a teammate, a strategist, and an advisor who can help you navigate everything from legal procedures to emotional landmines. But how do you know if you’ve found the right one in Pendleton?
It all starts with asking the right questions.
1. What should I bring to the first meeting?
Come prepared. Your first consultation with a divorce lawyer is like laying out all the pieces of a puzzle. The more complete the picture, the better guidance you’ll receive. At a minimum, gather:
- Tax returns (last 2–3 years)
- Pay stubs or income documentation
- Bank statements
- Credit card balances and loan info
- Property deeds or mortgage papers
- Retirement account details
- Prenuptial or postnuptial agreements (if any)
- Any pending legal documents
2. What is your experience with divorce cases?
You want someone who focuses on family law, not someone who dabbles in it part-time.
Ask:
- How many divorce cases have you handled?
- Do you have experience with cases involving children, high net-worth assets, or business ownership?
- Have you taken cases to trial, or are most settled out of court?
This helps you gauge their skill level and their comfort with complexity.
3. What is your approach to divorce?
Every divorce attorney in Pendleton has a different personality and style. Some are aggressive litigators. Others take a more cooperative or collaborative approach. The best choice for you depends on your goals.
Are you hoping to negotiate peacefully, or are things already hostile? Ask:
- Do you prefer negotiation, mediation, or litigation?
- Are you open to out-of-court settlements?
- What’s your success rate in contested divorces?
This isn’t about “winning.” It’s about finding the best outcome with the least damage — emotionally and financially.
4. What will the process look like?
Divorce is more of a marathon than a sprint. Knowing the stages ahead can bring peace of mind. Most divorces follow these general steps:
- Filing a petition
- Temporary orders (child custody, spousal support, etc.)
- Discovery phase (sharing financial info)
- Settlement negotiations
- Trial (if needed)
- Final judgment
Ask your attorney:
- What are the next steps after this meeting?
- What are typical timelines?
- What are the chances my case will go to trial?
No one likes to be blindsided. Get the road map early.
5. Will you handle my case personally?
Law firms often operate as teams. That can be helpful, but you still deserve to know who’s quarterbacking your case.
- Will you be my main point of contact?
- Will junior associates or paralegals handle major tasks?
- Can I meet the team involved?
6. How will we communicate?
Communication breakdowns cause frustration fast. Don’t wait until your third voicemail goes unanswered. You need a Pendleton lawyer who keeps you in the loop, not one who disappears after you sign the retainer.
Ask:
- What’s the best way to reach you — email, phone?
- How quickly do you usually respond?
- Will I get regular updates?
7. What can I expect in terms of costs?
Legal bills can add up fast. Transparency is everything.
Ask:
- What is your hourly rate?
- Do you require a retainer?
- What additional fees should I expect (filing, court reporters, etc.)?
- Can I get a rough cost estimate based on my case?
Also, don’t forget to ask how you’ll be billed — monthly, biweekly, or at key milestones?
8. How long will the divorce take?
This is one of the most common (and hardest) questions to answer. Still, a good lawyer can give you a rough estimate based on:
- Level of cooperation between spouses
- Complexity of assets or custody issues
- Court backlog in your county
Simple divorces may take a few months. Contested ones? A year or more. Ask about possible delays and how to avoid them.
9. What about custody and visitation?
If you’re a parent, this section may matter most. Child custody can be emotional, but the courts prioritize the child’s best interests.
Ask:
- How do courts decide custody in our state?
- What’s the difference between legal and physical custody?
- Can we create a custom parenting plan?
- What if my spouse and I can’t agree?
Also, don’t forget to ask how holidays, school breaks, and special occasions are usually handled.
10. How will assets and debts be divided?
You’ve built a life, and now it’s time to divide it. That includes:
- Home(s)
- Vehicles
- Retirement savings
- Credit card debt
- Business ownership
Ask:
- Does our state use community property or equitable distribution?
- What happens to property acquired before marriage?
- How are debts divided?
11. Can we use mediation or collaborative divorce?
Not every divorce in Pendleton needs to end in a courtroom showdown. Mediation or collaborative divorce allows couples to negotiate peacefully with legal guidance.
Ask:
- Is my case a good fit for mediation?
- Have you handled collaborative divorces?
- What are the pros and cons of each approach?
This path can be faster, cheaper, and less emotionally draining. It’s worth exploring.
12. What are my rights and obligations?
There’s no rulebook for how to act during a divorce — unless your lawyer gives you one. You don’t want to accidentally hurt your case by making an uninformed move.
Ask:
- Can I move out of the house?
- Can I travel with the kids?
- Can I open a new bank account?
13. Can you help me with a prenuptial/postnuptial?
If you’re not yet divorced but planning for the future, this is a good time to talk prenups or postnups.
Ask:
- Can you review or draft a prenup/postnup?
- How are these enforced in our state?
- Are there any clauses we should avoid?
14. What should I avoid doing during divorce?
It’s just as important to know what not to do. A misstep on social media or a shady financial move can hurt your credibility. In divorce, actions have consequences. Let your lawyer be your filter before making big moves.
Ask:
- Should I stay off social media?
- Can I date during the divorce?
- Is it okay to make large purchases?
- What if I suspect my spouse is hiding assets?
15. How can I protect myself emotionally and legally?
A good divorce lawyer knows this is an emotional journey and will support you. Your well-being is just as important as your settlement. A lawyer who recognizes that is a lawyer worth keeping.
Ask:
- Do you recommend therapists or support groups?
- How can I stay calm during negotiations?
- How do I keep my kids emotionally safe during this time?
Empower yourself with the right questions — and the right advocate
Asking the right questions is your power tool. It helps you find clarity, confidence, and a legal partner who genuinely has your back. Divorce may change your life, but with the right attorney, you’ll come out stronger, wiser, and ready for your next chapter.
At Russell Law Group, Kendra D. Russell focuses exclusively on family law in Pendleton, Oregon, providing fierce yet compassionate representation through every step of your divorce. If you’re ready to take back control and move forward with confidence, we’re here to help. Contact us online or call (541) 777-8032 today to schedule your consultation and start your next chapter on your terms.
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