Once you’ve made the difficult decision to end your marriage, the next step is to find an attorney. Many in this position don’t know where to start or how to evaluate the attorneys they find. You don’t need to hire the first attorney you meet. Getting referrals from friends or family is a good place to start, but it’s important to do your homework and make sure you are confident in the lawyer you’ve chosen to have on your side to advocate for you through the divorce process.
If an attorney does not specialize in family law, they will likely not be the best choice to represent you in a divorce. Divorce and family law are specialized areas of practice that require knowledge and skills that can be honed through years of experience working in those areas. From custody to alimony to property division, you need to have an attorney who understands all the nuances that family law presents.
Look for a lawyer with several years of practice in family law who have a good reputation. Look online for insight into how well the lawyer resolved cases for their clients. Look at reviews and ask for referrals. How well will the divorce attorney advocate for you? How well do they communicate? Can they handle challenging cases?
While you may not get a full strategy at your first consultation, you should have a general idea of how the attorney you are considering will strategize. Do they have an estimate of how long the case will take to resolve? Do they have any predictions on how a judge might rule?
A divorce attorney is another expense in what may be a very expensive process. Speak openly with the divorce attorney you are considering. How will you be charged? Is there an hourly rate? Is there a retainer? Will your attorney recommend additional experts, such as private investigators, forensic accountants, or therapists? Be up front with your attorney about your cost concerns. Ask what they estimate the total cost of your divorce will be. Most attorneys will not be able to give you a dollar estimate because each case is unique, but how your attorney answers the question will help you understand the costs involved. Some attorneys will even give you tips on how to keep the cost of your divorce down if your case seems relatively straightforward.
Look at how quickly your potential divorce attorney responds to your calls and emails. Do they answer back in a timely manner? Do they respond or do they delegate that task to someone else? Do they answer your questions in a way that you understand? Do they walk you through the process? You need to be able to communicate with your attorney without feeling like a bother to them with questions you have about your case.
You need to trust your attorney. Character is important when selecting a divorce attorney. Divorce cases are sensitive and personal, and you as the client need to trust your lawyer and feel comfortable sharing details of your life. A lawyer and client need to bond so the lawyer can gain insight into their client’s life and more effectively advocate on their behalf. As a client going through a stressful situation, you will have a much better experience if you have an attorney you feel comfortable with.
A good divorce attorney wears many hats for their client during the process. They will guide you through the complicated process while supporting you. They will be someone you can confide in as well as someone who will advocate strongly on your behalf. When choosing a divorce attorney, look for one you feel confident in, trust, and who communicates and connects well with you. If you’re going through a divorce and need better representation, contact my office today.