Your lawyer is there to assist and support you. Attorneys are governed by ethical rules, and whatever information you share with them must be kept private. It is critical that you tell your attorney everything pertinent to your case, even if you believe it will make you appear bad. Your attorney will collaborate with you to determine how to handle any bad material.
When you've decided on a lawyer, make sure to tell him or her everything you know about your case. Here are a few topics you might wish to discuss with your lawyer during your first few meetings:
- What are your main worries in this case?
- What are your objectives for the case?
- What is the attorney's plan for achieving your objectives?
- What can you do to improve your case preparation?
It is in your best interest to provide as much detail as possible to your attorney. Put specific activities in writing if you do not feel comfortable informing your attorney verbally.
Include ALL Instances of Abuse:
Locations of the abuse - for example, in your home (what room), in public (provide street name), etc.
Threats, striking, punching, pushing, shoving, biting, or forced sex acts, for example.
Objects used - for example, firearms, knives, & furniture, etc.
Inform your lawyer about any potential witnesses. Provide the names of any potential witnesses to your counsel. These necessary questions can be asked from you.
- Do you have any images of injuries sustained as a result of abuse?
- Where did you go for treatment?
- Was your abuser apprehended?
- Were you treated at the hospital for any injuries?
- Have you ever called the cops?
- Have you ever sought medical attention?
- Did the police show up?
- Is a custody order in effect?
- Was a report prepared?
- Children - Do you have any?
- Are your kids safe?
If there is no order in place, just because your child lives with you does not mean you have legal possession. Both parents have equal rights.
Inform Your Lawyer:
Ø of your children's names, ages, school addresses &
Ø what days and times work best for you and your children for visitation
Ø If your abuser requests visitation, you should discuss whether you want supervised visitation
Review the checklist on Preparing for the Final Protective Order Hearing to see if you are receiving child support from your abuser and if your abuser is providing health insurance for your children.
Benefits - Indicate whether or whether you get state benefits (e.g., welfare, temporary cash assistance, etc.).
Maintain Address Confidentiality - Inform your attorney that you do not want your current address posted on any papers that your abuser may receive or access. The most important consideration is your safety. You can request that your new address be kept hidden in court documents.
It's Your Case - Consult with a skilled Family Lawyer Attorney in Texas. Inform your attorney of any additional information you believe is relevant.
Please Bring All Documents to Court. It is critical to include any and all documents related to a court case (for example, a protection order, child custody order, or child support order etc.).
