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Here to Help: Preparing for Your First Meeting With Your Divorce Lawyer

Lloyd Malech is honored to be recognized as a 2026 Best of Bethesda Family Law Attorney Finalist. This reflects Malech Law’s dedication to supporting and guiding families through one of life’s most challenging transitions, divorce.

Where do we start? At the Beginning.

For many of our clients, the first consultation with a divorce lawyer may be their first encounter with the legal realm, and it can be intimidating and confusing. As clients start down the path toward reclaiming stability and a positive future Malech Law recognizes the critical importance of obtaining clarity and hopefully empowerment from the outset. Rather than feeling overwhelmed, our award-winning approach aims to make every client feel welcome, heard, and thoroughly prepared.

Our Commitment to You

Being honored by the Bethesda community for our work reflects the values that we bring to the table. We believe that advocacy includes educating and guiding you throughout the process with clear communication and practical wisdom on all aspects of this major change to the family composition. We are highly attentive to the importance of your emotional and financial well-being in the immediate and long term. We know that a positive outcome depends on the needs of each unique family, and by building trust, maintaining transparency, and focusing on the details, we aim to meet you where you are and get you to where you want to be.

What to Expect from Your First Consultation

The initial session is your opportunity to share your story, ask questions, and set goals. Your attorney needs to understand the facts and circumstances of the matter, as well as the direction you want to take. As the client, you need to begin the education and strategy process and to build trust with your attorney. During this meeting, you will learn about the process, share your specific hopes and concerns, and offer information that will allow your attorney to begin crafting a personalized strategy for your case.

What to Bring to Your Consultation

We recommend bringing the following to your first meeting with your attorney:

  • Financial documents: Recent pay stubs, tax returns, bank statements, and records of assets and debts allow your attorney to get a grasp of the scope of your finances.
  • Legal paperwork: Some documents will have a critical impact on the case, including prenuptial agreements, prior court orders, and your attorney will need to assess these documents and related correspondence to determine their influence on the outcome.
  • Questions and concerns: No issue is too minor. As a client, you need to feel empowered to understand what will happen in the process, outline your priorities, and enable your attorney to advocate for your interests.
  • Contact information: Your location, as well as that of your spouse and your children, can have an important impact on the first steps in the process, so it is important to be clear and accurate on these details.

At Malech Law, being here to help goes beyond legal advice. From our first meeting with you, we strive to make the process less overwhelming and more empowering. We do this by creating a space where you can feel safe asking questions, voicing concerns, and seeking answers. Our award-winning team is ready to walk beside you from the very first consultation, ensuring you are informed, confident, and supported every step of the way.


Thank you for reading our blog! 

If you need legal representation in Maryland or the District of Columbia, consider contacting Malech Law. With over 25 years of experience, we are committed to providing excellent service to our clients. Our accolades include the 2024 Family Law American Association of Attorney Advocates recognition, being a finalist in the 2024 Best of Bethesda Readers’ Pick for Best Family Law Practitioner, and winning the same award in 2022. We’ve also been honored with the Lawyers of Distinction Award for Excellence in Divorce and Family Law for the past five consecutive years. At Malech Law, we approach every case with respect, empathy, and a dedication to excellence. Contact us today for professional legal assistance.

Visit Malechlaw.com or call (202) 441-2107.

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