A divorce generally consists of issues surrounding child custody and division of the marital estate. Depending on what portions of the divorce proceeding are contested in the positions of the parties is going to determine what steps are necessary to take. For example, it is extremely common that a temporary order hearing is scheduled where in the court determines on a temporary basis, conservatorship, who live Where, who pays for what, possession and access of the children and what other steps need to be taken between the temporary order hearing and a final trial. A court might order a child custody evaluation if child custody is disputed, or the judge might appoint an amicus attorney. If there is a business involved, a business valuation might be necessary. If the parties don’t agree on the fair market value of the marital residence, it might be necessary to value that as well. If there are commingled assets, you will likely need to hire a forensic accountant to trace accounts and investments to determine what portion are community and what portion are separate.

In your initial in your initial consultation with your attorney, it is imperative that you address all of the issues in your matter and what you anticipate will be disputed.