Meeting with a family law attorney for the first time can feel unfamiliar, especially if you have never been involved in a legal process before. That uncertainty is normal. A first family law consultation is a focused, supportive conversation about what is happening in your life right now, what legal issue you want to address, and what kind of help may make sense as you move forward.
Before the meeting, you will complete an intake form. This allows the attorney to review the key facts of your situation in advance so your consultation time can be used well and centered on what matters most to you. Consultations may take place in person, by phone, or virtually, depending on what best fits your schedule and comfort level.
The Purpose of Your Family Law Consultation
During your consultation, you and the attorney will talk through what brought you in and what outcome you are hoping to reach. The attorney will ask thoughtful questions, identify important legal considerations, and explain your immediate options based on the information you share.
Some people choose to bring documents, timelines, or a list of questions they want to address. These items can be helpful, but they are not required. The goal of the meeting is to understand your situation and begin outlining possible next steps.
Understanding Your Goals
A meaningful part of the consultation is identifying your goals. People seek family law guidance for many reasons. You may be considering divorce, working through a parenting or custody concern, preparing for an adoption, updating estate planning documents, navigating probate, or pursuing a name change.
Your goals shape the strategy going forward. Taking time to talk through what matters most to you helps the attorney recommend options that align with your priorities and the realities of your life.
Assessing Fit and Support
The consultation is also your opportunity to decide whether the attorney and the firm feel like the right fit for you. You should expect professionalism, transparency, and a space where your concerns are taken seriously.
Choosing legal representation is an important decision. You deserve to feel informed and supported as you consider how you want to move forward.
Legal Service Options at McGill Law
During your consultation, the attorney will explain the service options available at McGill Law and help you understand which approach may work best for your situation. Many matters can be resolved outside of court through planning, communication, and guided problem solving. When court involvement becomes necessary, the firm is prepared to represent and support you through the litigation process.
McGill Law offers collaborative mediation, a process in which both parties work with a trained neutral mediator in a structured environment designed to support productive conversation and resolution without going to court. In some cases, financial professionals or child specialists may participate based on the needs of the family.
Collaborative divorce is another option. In this model, each person has their own collaboratively trained attorney, and everyone commits to resolving the matter outside of court. Neutral professionals, child specialists, or coaches may join the team when helpful.
Traditional mediation is also available. A neutral mediator facilitates communication and helps the parties work toward agreement on parenting plans and property matters. People may participate with or without their own attorneys.
When court is required, McGill Law provides full representation in litigated matters, including divorce, custody disputes, modifications, guardianships, business disputes, and other litigated issues.
The firm also regularly assists clients with adoptions, estate planning, probate matters, and name changes. All of these matters begin with the same intake and consultation process so the attorney can understand your goals and recommend an effective plan.
For those who want targeted guidance rather than full representation, unbundled legal services are available. These services may include reviewing or drafting documents, offering strategic advice, or preparing for a hearing or negotiation.
What Happens After the Consultation
Your initial consultation is the starting point. It gives you space to explain what is happening, ask the questions that feel important, and understand the options available to you. It also gives the attorney the insight needed to begin shaping a plan that reflects your goals and priorities.
From there, you decide how you want to move forward, in a way that feels right for you.
Ready to get started? You can fill out an intake form, schedule a consultation with one of our attorneys by phone, video conference or in person at our Omaha or Lincoln office, or simply give us a call at 402-548-5418.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Jessica Witters is an Associate Attorney at McGill Law, where she focuses on family law matters including divorce, custody, and estate planning. Dedicated to helping clients navigate life’s transitions with empathy and clarity, Jessica approaches each case with compassion and practical insight. Born and raised in Omaha, she brings a deep connection to the Nebraska community and a commitment to empowering families to move forward with confidence.
Questions About Your First Family Law Consultation
What happens during an initial family law consultation?
During an initial family law consultation, you will discuss your situation, goals, and concerns with an attorney.
The attorney will ask questions, explain relevant legal considerations, and outline possible options for moving forward.
Do I need to bring documents to my consultation?
Documents can be helpful, but they are not required.
If you have paperwork, timelines, or notes you want to share, you are welcome to bring them.
Can I meet with a family law attorney virtually?
Yes.
Consultations at McGill Law may take place in person, by phone, or virtually, depending on what works best for you.
What types of cases does McGill Law handle?
McGill Law assists with divorce, custody and parenting matters, mediation, collaborative divorce, adoption, estate planning, probate, name changes, and other family law related matters.
What are unbundled legal services?
Unbundled legal services allow clients to receive targeted legal help without full representation.
This may include document review or drafting, strategic advice, or preparation for a specific hearing or negotiation.