What to expect from solicitor meeting

[watchmeflyhigh]

Trusty mumsnetters,

Can anyone advise what to expect from an initial appointment with a solicitor re divorce/separating . What do I need to bring with me etc.

My DH and I are currently going through a very amicable separation. We live in the same home and coparent our 2&5 yo DC successfully. The plan is to look at either selling the home, or DH buying me out (with MIL money) at some point soon. Just need to meet with mortgage broker in the new year and come up with a plan.

We both work part time and earn similar amounts. In my mind it will all be 50/50 finances and childcare. But my family want me to speak with a solicitor anyway which seems sensible.

I feel very out of my depth here and would appreciate any advice.

I'd be prepared with details of both your incomes, savings, how much house may be worth, who will have the children and when along with the details of any other assets.

Look at the form you will have to fill in anyway when you apply for consent order. Fill it in now with the info.
Ask the solicitor what the very best settlement you could expect to achieve is and what they think would be fair and what would be the worst.

If things are amicable, consider that many solicitors prime their clients to feel adversarial, as it keeps business coming in.

An amicable divorce is worth its weight in gold.

Heya
Have details of income etc to hand. It will make filling in any paperwork easier. Talk to the solicitor about settlement options too. Make notes as well.

@auberJohn

If things are amicable, consider that many solicitors prime their clients to feel adversarial, as it keeps business coming in.

An amicable divorce is worth its weight in gold.

This is how I'm feeling. My ex has honestly been amazing and we're getting on very well. (Absolutely not in a place to reconsider the separation).

I just don't think a solicitor is necessary 🤷‍♀️

Thank you for all the advice. I will speak with my solicitor friend and see what she advices I think.

Maybe try mediation with a solicitor alongside from 'Resolution', or try 'collaborative solicitors?

Pensions is an asset that needs financial advisors too.