If you recently made the decision to get a divorce, you have taken a difficult and important first step. Divorce is not easy, and despite what critics say, almost no one makes the decision lightly.

But many people who have taken that first step may quickly find themselves frozen by an important question: "what do I do next?" Whether you live here in North Florida or anywhere else in the county, it is important to seek out a qualified family law attorney who can help you through the process.

In a recent Huffington Post article, family law attorney Margaret Klaw informed readers about the consultation process. Because hiring the right attorney is so important, a good first step is to schedule a one-hour (or longer) consultation with an attorney who you think might be a good fit.

This meeting does not obligate you to hire him or her. Instead, Klaw says, the face-to-face meeting is often the best way to determine if an attorney will be a good match for your personality and the specifics of your case.

Even though this is just an initial meeting, Klaw recommends that you bring as much information with you as you can. This includes a list of assets and debts. You should also tell the attorney which of these are in your name, in your spouse's name, and which are shared.

Common examples of assets include:

  • Bank and investment accounts
  • Jewelry and other high-value personal property
  • Cars and other vehicles
  • Retirement plans
  • Real estate

Common examples of debts include:

  • Outstanding balances on credit cards
  • Student loans
  • Car loans
  • Mortages

In addition to the above information, Klaw advises readers to bring documents pertaining to income, including pay stubs, tax returns and anything else you can think of.

It is important to come prepared to your initial consultation with a family law attorney, but remember that there is no need to be nervous. It is important to take the time you need to make sure that you end up hiring the right attorney for you.

Source: Huffington Post, "How To Divorce: How Do I File For Divorce?" Margaret Klaw, May 29, 2012