Part of the divorce process is to find a divorce attorney to represent you. Divorce matters are complex. Couples need to decide such matters as property division, custody of minor children, visitation rights, parental rights and other matters. Since the majority of divorces are adversarial, and the parties usually don't get along, having your own attorney is the best solution. This way your attorney and your spouses attorney can battle it out in court. You should interview at least a couple divorce and family law attorneys to find one you are comfortable working with. Since divorce laws are different in each state, it is recommended that you choose a knowledgeable and experienced family law attorney who is licensed to practice in your state.
Locating an Attorney
The best way to find a divorce attorney is to get a referral from a friend or family member. You might also ask another attorney you do business with. Every state bar association has a referral service and so do some of the courts. The Internet is another good place to look. Try and find someone local in your city who has an established and good reputation with other attorneys in the area and with family law court judges.
Initial Consultation Interview Questions
Most divorce attorneys do not charge for an initial consultation. In fact, you can expect to get some very good free general advice. There are some questions that you should ask the attorney to help you make your decision such as the following:
- Number of years they have been in business
- Will they be performing the services or will a junior associate in their office be handling your case
- Services to be performed
- Billing rates and fees
- Payment arrangements
- How long the divorce process will take
- How the attorney will communicate with you and how often
Depending on how the attorney answers your questions, you can get a pretty good idea at the initial consultation meeting if the attorney is someone you think you want to hire to represent you.
Professional Qualities
You should also consider the following professional qualities when choosing a divorce attorney:
- Business reputation in the community
- Experience and knowledge
- Negotiating skills
- Good manners and respectful behavior
- Is the attorney comfortable with using technology and other cost saving tools to keep your divorce costs down
- Energetic and enthusiastic about representing you
- Trustworthy and honest
- Listens to what you say
- Answers your questions
- Understanding
Choosing the right attorney makes all the difference in what type of divorce settlement you get Hiring an experienced and skillful divorce attorney is well worth the money and your peace of mind knowing that your interests are being protected.
Consult with an Attorney
Divorces and family law matters are extremely stressful and emotional for most people so it is a good idea to have an attorney represent you in the negotiations. The attorney is knowledgeable and experienced about the divorce and family laws in your state and can advise you of the best way to resolve divorce issues.
