Choosing the Right Divorce Attorney
During a difficult phase in life like divorce it is hard to know where to turn. Only a handful of us really know what to do or where to go. Many times people end up wasting their money and time to find the right lawyer. However, if you know what to look for in the first place, finding a lawyer should be a lot easier. The following steps will help you find an affordable, efficient, and experienced divorce attorney.
Be realistic
The sole purpose of divorce is to dissolve assets and resolve custody issues. The divorce attorney is assigned with the job of representing you in the best possible way. Though you expect them to listen to your frustration, anger, sadness, and pain, it is not their job to do so. There is no way you waste time in this manner, especially when the divorce attorney is charging you for every second. Remember that divorce attorneys are used to dealing with cases like yours on a daily basis. So be realistic about what you can expect from your attorney.
Stay focused
The ultimate goal is getting a divorce without seeing your quality of lifestyle depreciated. Don’t be carried away while negotiating over things that are not much valuable in the long-run. If you persist, your divorce will be lengthy and expensive. Instead you should focus on getting a quick divorce with incurring less financial damage.
Know what you want
Before hiring a divorce attorney right away, first consider what other options are available at hand. If there is not much left to do with finance and custody of children, you can always higher a negotiator. Mediation is the best way to get a divorce without hiring an expensive attorney. However, if your divorce appears to be complicated in nature, you would have to hire an attorney.
There is also the collaborative divorce option, which means the continuation of a co-parenting relationship. Unfortunately, if neither side can reach an agreement, a litigated trial is the last resort.
Identify at least three potential attorneys
Do not hire an attorney as soon as you meet one. Make a shortlist of at least 3 divorce attorneys before you proceed. Ideally, you need to appoint an attorney with expertise in family law. Besides you will require another attorney who is specialized in the type of divorce you are eyeing at.
Research and interview potential attorneys
Initially make a phone call and ask them about their particular experience when it comes to family law. Also get to know what kind of clients they usually represent. Next, ask them about fees. Some attorneys tend to charge on an hourly basis, while some others prefer contractual payment upon completion of divorce settlement. Do not waste your time sitting down with a lawyer whose rate is out of your budget. During the research phase, have a close look into the attorney’s past record in previous cases.
Look for red flags
Most attorneys are likely to tell you what you want to hear, instead of what you really need to know. This is nothing but another day in business for them. Anything involving legal process can’t be guaranteed on one party’s favor. So, do not fall for promises made by an attorney. If the attorney fails to pay the respect and attention you deserve, it is best to sift him. After all it might be just another case for the attorney; but for you it is like a life and death situation.
Make your choice
Hire someone you trust and feel free to communicate with. Your divorce attorney should be professional, responsive, and knowledgeable. His basic philosophy and work ethic should be something that works for you. He should be honest in thinking and practical in approach.