As a potential client seeking family law representation in Indiana, being prepared with key information can help your attorney better serve your needs. A properly prepared attorney can make a world of a difference in your family law matter, and it is important to provide your attorney with information they request from you. This blog will discuss the three most crucial questions your attorney needs answered to effectively handle your case.
Indiana follows an “equitable distribution” approach to dividing marital property. To protect your interests, your attorney needs a complete financial picture including: all real estate holdings and their estimated values; bank accounts, retirement accounts, and investment portfolios; vehicles, valuable collections, and other significant personal property; credit card debt, mortgages, and other financial obligations; recent pay stubs and tax returns; business pay stubs and tax returns; business interests or ownership stakes; inheritance or gifts received during the marriage; and hidden or recently transferred assets you suspect exist. Being thorough and honest about your financial situation helps your attorney develop appropriate legal strategies and ensures compliance with Indiana's financial disclosure requirements.
For cases involving children, your attorney needs detailed about: current custody and visitation arrangements; each parent’s relationship with the children; work schedules and availability for parenting time; children’s schools, activities, and special needs; any concerns about the other parent’s ability to care for the children; history of domestic violence or substance abuse (if applicable); extended family involvement and support systems; proposed parenting time schedules; and plans for relocating or changing schools. This information is crucial for developing parenting plans that meet Indiana’s “best interests of the child” standard and comply with the Indiana Parenting Time Guidelines.
You attorney will also need to understand your goals and deal-breakers. You will need to explain: your primary objectives in the legal proceedings; non-negotiable items or “deal-breakers”; areas where you are willing to compromise; timeline expectations or deadlines; concerns about the other party’s potential actions; whether you prefer settlement or are prepared for litigation; any sensitive issues that could impact negotiations; and religious or cultural considerations affecting decisions. By providing thorough answers to these questions, you enable your attorney to develop effective legal strategies aligned with your goals.
Remember, the attorney-client relationship works best when built on complete disclosure and trust. Being upfront and detailed with this information from the start helps ensure the best possible outcome for your family law matter. The more comprehensive and honest your responses to these questions, the better equipped your attorney will be to represent your interests and navigate Indiana's family law system effectively. While some questions might seem intrusive, remember that your attorney needs this information to provide the best possible representation and protect your legal rights. The attorneys at Ciyou & Associates, P.C. have a comprehensive background in family law in Indiana. This blog was written by attorneys at Ciyou & Associates, P.C., and this blog is not intended to provide specific legal advice or solicitation of services as this is an advertisement.
