Custody Attorney Consultation Preparation Checklist (Printable)

Appointment details

Attorney / firm:

Date and time:

Location or call/video link:

Length and fee:

Confirm with the office beforehand

How long the meeting is and what it costsIn person, phone, or videoHow to send documents ahead, if at allWhat they want me to bringConfidentiality and conflict-check process before sending details

Documents to gather (if applicable)

One-page case snapshot

Who is involved

Children's ages and relevant needs

Current living arrangements and actual schedule

Existing case, court, and case number

Existing orders and agreements

Upcoming hearings and known deadlines

Top two or three concerns

Practical outcome I hope to discuss

Also attach this filled checklist as a PDFOnly saved when you tap the button, to your private journal.

My top three concerns or questions

Important dates and known deadlines

Questions about fees and communication

Is the consultation fee separate from a retainer?How are fees and expenses billed?What does the retainer cover; when is it replenished?What can I do myself to control costs?Limited-scope or payment arrangements available?Who handles my case day to day; how and how fast do you communicate?

Notes from the meeting

Next steps and who is responsible

Next steps and who is responsible
Next step	Who	By when
Next step 1	Who 1	By when 1
Next step 2	Who 2	By when 2
Next step 3	Who 3	By when 3
Next step 4	Who 4	By when 4

Before I leave

I understand the next stepI know which deadlines need attentionI know what records are still neededI understand the proposed fee arrangementI know who to contact and howI asked what hiring the attorney would involveI wrote down what I still do not understandI confirmed whether representation has begun, and asked for the scope in writing