Court documents and deadlines

  • Any court documents you have received — applications, notices, orders, or affidavits
  • Court file or case numbers
  • Upcoming court dates or filing deadlines (these are time-sensitive)
  • Any correspondence from the other party's lawyer
  • Existing separation agreements or parenting plans

Financial information

If your matter involves child support, spousal support, or property division, financial information is especially important.

  • Your most recent tax return or Notice of Assessment
  • Recent pay stubs or proof of income
  • A basic list of assets: home, vehicles, savings, investments, pension
  • A basic list of debts: mortgage, loans, credit cards
  • Children's expenses if child support is a concern (daycare, medical, extracurricular)
  • Bank statements or property valuation documents if available

Parenting information

  • Current parenting schedule, even if informal
  • School and extracurricular information for each child
  • Any concerns about safety or wellbeing
  • Your preferred parenting arrangement and your reasons

Questions and goals

  • Write down your questions and concerns before the meeting
  • What outcome matters most to you right now
  • Whether you have spoken with a lawyer before about this matter
  • Whether you want to resolve things without going to court, if possible

For help with the issues behind these documents, see family law support and divorce and separation services.

Common questions about family law consultations