Like others have said, many family lawyers give free consults, even the expensive ones. I got names from attorneys and professionals I knew. I interviewed three and only paid for one. I wish I would have talked to more.
The list below, though daunting, helps when you go in to talk to an attorney. I'd tell them a brief honest summary of the relationship. I had information from our taxes which gave the amount made, and our assets. They were able to tell me what my legal rights were, what I could expect based on the length of our marriage and work experience.
They gave me the best case and worst case scenarios, with an educated guess about what the settlement may include.
No one can promise you anything. If they do, leave. If someone wants you to sign a retainer on the first meeting.. leave.
Here's something I found helpful.
The end of a marriage can bring pitfalls along with pain. Here are some questions to ask, during the divorce process and afterward, to help you protect yourself legally and financially.
Before you sign anything:
Do you have an experienced attorney?
Have you also consulted with a financial-planning professional?
Have you identified all marital property, including retirement plans?
Do you know the present value for each of these assets, after taxes?
Have you determined your income needs?
Do you and your spouse share debts?
If so, will they be paid off before the divorce is final?
If the debts can't be paid off now, are you protected if your spouse fails to make payments?
Do you have a Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO) to secure future retirement benefits?
Are alimony and other future payments to you (and/or your children) insured?
If these payments are backed by insurance on your spouse's life, do you own the policy?
Do you understand all the documents you're signing?
Have you asked if the settlement will keep you financially secure? Are you satisfied with the answer?
