Regarding meeting with a L, my sister is a L (not family law) so she coached me in ways to limit my L's fees. The number one rule here is to be VERY well-organized and prepared every time you interact with your L. Have all of your documentation ready. I had two 3" thick 3 ring binders with copies of all documentation (one for me and one for L) with index tabs for each section and a color-coded table of contents on the front so that during our meetings I could quickly turn to the information the L wanted and answer any questions he had. Time is money with Ls so the more work you can do on your own, the more $$ you will save. I guess it depends on who is paying the L: you or H. Every time you speak with or e-mail your L or his/her paralegal you will be charged in 10 minute increments (most likely), so save up questions to ask in an organized fashion all at once.
I also went to the local law school and copied information on D law from the state statutes so that I could ask my L important questions.
I know this sounds overwhelming now. When I was there I was walking in a daze with my sister coaching me over the phone to do these things. Organization is key in saving $$ with your L.
