Featured
This article will guide you in choosing the best divorce lawyer that fits your case.
Divorce is one of the hardest emotionally and financially. According to Custodyxchange.com, 1,000 recently divorced parents with both parents represented were 86% more likely to settle out of court than those with one (63%) or no attorney (71%).
Divorce involves complicated decisions about child custody, asset division, and financial support.
Santa Fe family lawyer Heather Tanner says an individual must consider the lawyer’s experience, negotiation skills, and communication style when choosing a divorce lawyer. These attributes contribute to a smoother and more favorable resolution.
Assess Experience and Specialization
Avoid hiring inexperienced lawyers, especially when dealing with divorce, as they can lead to numerous legal issues that can harm your case. Find a lawyer who has experience with family law issues, including child custody, spousal support, asset division, and other divorce-related matters.
You also need to assess what areas you specifically need help with. For example, you may need to ask a child support lawyer to create a child support order to ensure that your children receive appropriate financial support from your ex-spouse after the divorce.
Then, based on your specific needs, look at the track record of your shortlisted lawyers to see if they have successful cases similar to yours. You can also ask about their case management strategy and how it would apply to your case.
Evaluate Communication Style
It is important to have effective attorney-client communication when dealing with divorce. Look for a lawyer who will listen, answer your questions, and clearly explain legal concepts. Observe how they handle your requests and questions during your initial consultation.
Ask if the attorney will have associates and support staff to help you if he or she is unavailable. Before making any commitments, you need to know if your divorce attorney is also prepared to work with other experts who provide crucial insights during a divorce.
You might need the assistance of forensic accountants and business valuators and your attorney should be prepared to collaborate with these professionals if they currently don’t have existing contacts with people who specialize in these areas.
Hire a divorce lawyer you are comfortable with, because you will be sharing sensitive details about your case. A responsive and communicative lawyer will affect the success of your case and provide you peace of mind all throughout the process.
Understand Fees and Payment Structures
Inquire about a lawyer’s fees and payment structure to avoid financial surprises.
Some practitioners charge flat fees, whereas others bill hourly. Don’t hesitate to ask what plan is best for you. Check to see if the lawyer accepts flexible payment methods or if the terms can be negotiated based on the situation.
Create a written contract detailing all fees and payment terms to avoid potential payment disputes. Following the steps above will help you make informed decisions and properly manage your budget.
Check Reviews and References
Don’t forget to check online testimonials about a potential divorce lawyer. Check for feedback on communication, responsiveness, and case management. Avvo and Google Reviews can tell you about other customers’ experiences.
Speaking with former clients can help you learn more about a lawyer. Past clients’ testimonials will help you choose a lawyer who fits the circumstances of your case.
Compatibility and Trustworthiness
You should hire a lawyer who is compatible with your legal goals and is trustworthy. You can use your initial meeting with the lawyer to check if their case approach is compatible with your personal style. Trustworthiness establishes a strong relationship with the client, giving them confidence and peace of mind that their case will achieve success.
Hiring the right divorce lawyer will allow you to focus on what lies ahead and not be confused with the overwhelming process of divorce. Do your research and trust your instinct.
Image Credit: depositphotos.com
