What Documents to Bring to a Divorce Consultation

Breaking up a marriage can feel like trying to breathe with a heavy weight on your chest. Preparation eases that weight because it turns guesswork into clear next steps.

At Jackman Law Firm, we have offered steady guidance to Seattle families since 2014, and we have learned that the first meeting goes smoother when paperwork is in hand.

This article lists the documents that help your lawyer give useful advice during an initial divorce consultation in Seattle.

Purpose of the Initial Divorce Consultation

Before you start gathering papers, it helps to know why the meeting matters. An initial consultation is a relaxed conversation where you share your story and hear how a divorce attorney may help. You also get a sense of whether the lawyer’s style matches your needs while learning how Washington law protects your rights and your children.

The meeting often lasts about an hour, and the topics can jump from parenting plans to real estate values. Having the right documents handy lets the lawyer spot deadlines, flag weak spots, and outline strong next moves without delay.

Essential Documents to Bring to Your Consultation

You do not need a banker’s box overflowing with files. Start with the materials below and bring extra items only if they answer a pressing question you have for the attorney.

Legal Documents

Anything already filed with a court or served on you should top the pile. These papers shape the timeline and tone of the case.

• Petition for Dissolution, Summons, or Motion for Temporary Orders.
• Existing court orders, such as a Parenting Plan or Domestic Violence Protection Order.
• Prenuptial or community property agreements.

Washington rules give you a short window, often 20 days, to answer a Petition. Handing these papers to the lawyer on day one helps prevent a default judgment.

Financial Records

Washington follows a community property model, so both sides need a clear picture of what exists and what it is worth.

• Federal tax returns for the last three years.
• Year-end pay statements and recent pay stubs.
• Checking, savings, and credit-union statements for the past six months.
• Retirement or investment account summaries.
• A simple list of real estate, vehicles, and other titled property.

If you cannot find every statement, bring what you have. The lawyer can request missing material later through formal discovery.

Income-Related Documents

Washington support calculations rely on each parent’s gross monthly income. Precise numbers lower the odds of future disputes.

1. W-2 or 1099 forms covering at least the last two tax years.
2. Bank records show direct deposits.
3. Statements reflecting bonuses, rental income, or freelance work.

For self-employed spouses, profit-and-loss statements, balance sheets, or business tax returns help the lawyer explain cash flow to the court.

Debt-Related Documents

Liabilities can erase the value of an asset faster than most people expect, so gather current balances.

• Mortgage or home-equity loan statements.
• Credit card summaries.
• Student loan or personal loan paperwork.
• Auto loan payoff letters.

Even if a loan sits only in one spouse’s name, it can be treated as community debt if it serves the family, so accuracy helps shape fair division.

Documents Related to Children (if applicable)

Seattle judges focus on a child’s daily needs and each parent’s involvement.

• School report cards, IEPs, or attendance records.
• Pediatricians visit summaries or vaccination logs.
• A calendar highlighting each parent’s time with the child over the past year.
• Receipts for activities such as sports fees, tutoring, or daycare.
• Police reports or medical notes if substance misuse or domestic violence is an issue.

Bringing these records shows the attorney the facts, not just opinions, about each parent’s role.

Document Reference Table

The chart below sums up why each category matters:

Skimming this table before your meeting can act as a quick checklist, so nothing obvious stays at home.

Preparing a List of Questions

Documents tell part of the story, but your concerns round out the picture. Jot down questions while thoughts are fresh, even if they seem minor. Common topics include parenting schedules, how the house might be handled, or whether temporary support is realistic.

Entering the room with written questions keeps the meeting focused and makes sure you walk out with clear next steps instead of guesswork.

What To Expect After the Consultation

The first meeting sets the stage, yet it is only the opening scene. You are free to hire a family law lawyer or keep looking if the fit does not feel right. Should you move forward, the attorney will likely outline a list of additional records, draft initial pleadings, and set court deadlines on a shared calendar.

Leaving the office with organized thoughts and paperwork saves time and cuts costs because your lawyer can jump straight into strategy instead of hunting for basic facts.

Considering a Divorce in Seattle? Contact Us Today

Jackman Law Firm has helped Seattle clients face divorce with confidence, resourcefulness, and respect for family ties. Our team focuses on practical solutions, aiming for fair results in parenting plans, property splits, and support awards. If you are ready for a clear game plan, call us at 206-558-5555 or visit our Contact Us page. We welcome your questions and look forward to helping you move toward the next chapter.