When going through a divorce, a skilled and reliable attorney is essential to help guide the process smoothly and successfully. Here are some helpful tips on finding one.
A competent lawyer will help to adjust your emotions toward more reasonable options in cases with high conflict potential. This is particularly important when handling high conflict cases.
Ask for Referrals
Referrals from fellow lawyers can be an effective way of building up your clientele base, provided they’re handled professionally and respectfully. Furthermore, be mindful of what can and cannot be said during any meeting with potential referrers.
When asking for referrals, be as specific as possible about what legal assistance you require. This will allow friends and family members to provide more targeted suggestions while also understanding why you are seeking this particular referral and feeling more at ease recommending someone they know.
As part of your search for an attorney to represent your divorce proceedings, take into account their experience and track record in divorce law proceedings. Some lawyers specialize in collaborative approaches which aim to avoid court altogether; this might not work in all situations but could reduce stress during this stressful period. Experience and track record should also be top considerations when selecting your divorce lawyer.
Look at Their Track Record
The best divorce attorneys have an exceptional track record and understand family law. This means they’ve seen everything and understand what to expect during court proceedings; their expertise will allow them to anticipate judge reactions and devise effective strategies to guide you through it all.
An attorney specializing in family law will have an in-depth knowledge of child custody laws and property division. They’re able to assess your individual situation and devise solutions tailored specifically towards meeting your goals.
Ask about their previous experience dealing with cases similar to your own in terms of similar strategies used and outcomes achieved. Also pay attention to how punctual they are, their diligence and transparency as well as respect they show both you and the judge during meetings – this reveals their future approach towards your case.
Be Prepared for Your Meetings
On your initial meeting with an attorney, they will cover a range of matters related to legal process, custody arrangements (if applicable), child and spousal support payments, division of property and attorney fees. It is essential that any documents relevant to these issues such as pay stubs, year-end W2 statements or tax returns be brought along as this could help expedite matters further.
Have a list of questions ready for the lawyer. This can ensure all your concerns are addressed, while writing out what your desired outcomes from this divorce are: physical custody or severance agreements.
Some clients also find it helpful to bring someone along to their initial meeting who can take notes and offer support, so be sure to discuss this option with your attorney beforehand – they’d be more than happy to discuss it!
Ask About Their Pricing and Fees
Divorce can be expensive, especially if your spouse owns significant financial assets that must be divided. If it becomes necessary to litigate these issues in court and incur additional attorney fees.
Attorneys typically charge $175-325 an hour. This does not include filing and in-court fees, photocopies, notary and mailing charges, process server fees or any other associated costs specific to your case.
To lower legal fees, try doing as much of it on your own as possible, such as preparing paperwork or answering simple queries yourself. Only contact or email your lawyer with inquiries that require their expertise; alternatively it might be possible to save money by working with a paralegal or legal secretary who are typically charged at lower rates than your lawyer; additionally many divorce lawyers offer payment plans if their initial consultation fee exceeds your budget.