Divorce: Why You Should Tell Your Lawyer Everything~ 3 min read

ByJennifer Piper Hours Categories Divorce

When you are going through a divorce, honesty with your lawyer is extremely important. If you hide information, even unintentionally, it can hurt your case. Your lawyer cannot protect you if they don’t know the full story. When unexpected facts come up during a trial, Mediation, Collaborative Divorce or negotiation, your lawyer needs to be prepared to respond effectively. If they are caught off guard, it weakens your position and could lead to worse outcomes.

Imagine sitting in a courtroom and hearing the other side reveal a fact you never shared with your lawyer. If your lawyer knows about potential problems beforehand, they can investigate, find solutions, and address any issues before they become serious. By being honest upfront, you give your lawyer the chance to protect you and strengthen your case.

Avoid Disruptions

Divorce Mediation is meant to be a productive and cooperative process, but surprises can throw everything off course. If your lawyer learns new information during Mediation, it can cause delays and increase costs. When the other side presents unexpected evidence, it can break down trust and stall negotiations. Being upfront with your lawyer allows them to anticipate challenges and guide the mediation more smoothly.

Collaborative Divorce offers a private and structured environment to resolve issues. If there is sensitive information you want to keep confidential, your lawyer can help manage it within the collaborative process. This approach allows you to address concerns privately while working toward a resolution that works for both parties. Being open with your lawyer helps you maintain control and prevent surprises from disrupting the process.

Your Information Is Confidential

You may hesitate to share certain details because you fear they could be used against you. However, the information you provide to your lawyer is protected by attorney-client privilege. Your lawyer cannot share anything you tell them without your permission.

By being open about all aspects of your situation, even the things you might find embarrassing or damaging, you allow your lawyer to create a strategy that protects you. If there are concerns about the other party’s actions, even if you don’t want to use the information immediately, your lawyer needs to know in case it becomes relevant later.

Help Your Lawyer Help You

The more your lawyer knows, the better they can advocate for you. Withholding information can lead to unnecessary complications and higher costs. If your lawyer has the full picture, they can ask the right questions, make informed decisions, and guide you toward the best possible outcome.

If you have concerns, talk them through with your lawyer. Together, you can decide how to handle sensitive information in a way that protects your interests.

How Full Disclosure Leads to the Best Results

Telling your lawyer everything in a divorce is not just about honesty, it’s about giving yourself the best chance for a fair and favorable outcome. Surprises in the middle of your case can cost time, money, and emotional energy. By sharing all the details, you empower your lawyer to protect and advocate for you.

Contact Family Ally

At Family Ally, we understand how personal and emotional the divorce process can be. Our team is here to provide support and strategic advice every step of the way. Whether you are considering Mediation or a Collaborative Divorce, we will work with you to protect your interests and guide you toward a better future.  Contact Jennifer Piper at 314-449-9800 to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help you through your divorce with confidence and care.

Family Ally is located at 130 S. Bemiston Ave., Suite 608, St. Louis, MO 63105.

Jennifer Piper

Jennifer R. Piper is a family law attorney, mediator, and parenting coordinator with more than 20 years of experience serving families in the St. Louis area. She is certified as a Guardian ad Litem and frequently appointed by courts to represent children in high-conflict cases. Jennifer is a former Chair of the Family and Juvenile Law Section of the Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis and an active leader in local and state bar organizations.
Her professional recognition includes being named to The Best Lawyers in America® (2017–2025), Missouri Super Lawyers (2021–2024), and receiving a Women’s Justice Award from Missouri Lawyers Weekly. Jennifer also holds an AV Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell. She regularly speaks on family law topics and has helped shape family court procedures through her service on multiple committees.

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