How do I choose a divorce attorney?
Choosing the right divorce attorney is crucial as they will play a significant role in guiding you through a difficult and emotionally charged process. Here are some important factors to consider when selecting a divorce attorney:
1. Experience: Look for an attorney who specializes in family law and has significant experience handling divorce cases. Experience brings knowledge of the legal system, judges, opposing counsels, and procedures. This can be invaluable in navigating your case effectively.
2. Reputation: Research the attorney's reputation in the legal community and among former clients. You can check online reviews, ask for recommendations from friends or family who have gone through a divorce, or consult with local bar associations. One of the greatest sources of client reviews can come from AVVO, Yelp, or the attorney’s website.
3. Communication skills: Effective communication is essential in any legal proceeding. Your attorney should be a good listener who understands your goals and concerns and can clearly explain legal concepts and strategies to you. Don’t immediately be turned off by an attorney that doesn’t tell you exactly what you want to hear. The attorney’s experience is invaluable and can help guide you to an amicable resolution you maybe hadn’t thought of otherwise.
4. Compatibility: You should feel comfortable working with your attorney and trust their judgment. Schedule an initial consultation to discuss your case and assess whether you feel comfortable with the attorney's approach and personality.
5. Availability: Ensure that the attorney you choose has the time and resources to devote to your case. Ask about their workload and availability for meetings and court appearances.
6. Fee structure: Understand the attorney's fee structure upfront, including hourly rates, retainer fees, and any additional costs. Make sure you are comfortable with the financial arrangements before moving forward.
7. Conflict resolution approach: Determine whether the attorney prefers a collaborative approach to divorce or if they are more adversarial. Depending on your situation and preferences, you may prefer an attorney who is skilled at negotiation and mediation rather than litigation.
8. Track record of success: While past results are not indicative of future outcomes, it can be helpful to know if the attorney has a track record of achieving favorable settlements or verdicts for their clients.
9. Specialized knowledge: If your divorce involves complex issues such as child custody, high assets, or business ownership, consider hiring an attorney with specialized knowledge in these areas.
10. References: Don't hesitate to ask the attorney for references from past clients. Speaking with former clients can provide valuable insights into the attorney's strengths and weaknesses.
By considering these factors and conducting thorough research, you can increase the likelihood of finding a divorce attorney who will effectively represent your interests. If you are interested in scheduling a consultation with our attorneys for divorce, legal separation, parentage matters, child support and spousal support issues, Child Support Services Department cases, Grandparent’s rights, mediation, prenuptial/postnuptial and/or mediation, please call our office and speak to a representative who will find a mutually convenient time for you to speak with our attorney.