Choosing the right divorce lawyer can be a difficult task. However, it is essential to get the best representation for your case. There are several critical questions to ask your potential attorney. These will help you make the most informed decision. They will also allow you to determine if the attorney is a good fit for your needs.
What is your experience level?
Choosing the right divorce lawyer is no small feat, so research and shop around. Your experience level is a big deal in the legal profession, and knowing it well will help you choose the right lawyer for your unique needs. It is also a good idea to do your homework and compare several lawyers before making your final decision. Selecting the most qualified attorney will be one of your best decisions in a long time.
How will you communicate with me?
When hiring a divorce attorney, you’ll want to communicate your needs and expectations. Whether it’s phone calls, emails, or texts, you must establish clear boundaries before meeting with your lawyer.
For example, if your lawyer has a heavy caseload and needs to make time to answer your questions, it could be a red flag.
How long will your case take?
If your divorce is uncontested, it will usually take just a few months. However, this can vary depending on your state’s waiting period and how backed up the local court system is. It may take longer if you have complex issues about property division, child custody, or visitation. Even these problems can be resolved quickly if you and your spouse reach a marital settlement agreement.
What type of divorce case is it?
Before you can file for divorce, you and your spouse must agree on all the key issues, such as custody, support, spousal maintenance, property division, and any other relevant matters. Often, the more problems you and your spouse can resolve before you go to court, the faster and easier it will be for you to settle. However, when discussing these issues, remember that emotions can get the best of you. Many factors will impact how long it takes if your case will be resolved outside of court or if it will go to trial. Our experienced litigation attorneys can give you a rough estimate of how long your case will take.
Will you be my advocate in negotiations?
One of the essential things a divorce attorney can do for you is your advocate in negotiations. This means asking questions, learning about your counterpart’s negotiating reputation, and digging into their fundamental goals, needs, and options. In the end, this will help you reach a mutually beneficial settlement. And, of course, it will also give you the peace of mind you deserve knowing that you’ve made the right choice in hiring a professional to represent you in your divorce case. Also, your lawyer can give you a reasonable estimate of how long your case will take. It might take a few months, or it might take years to resolve your dispute. It depends on the facts of your case, who you’re using, and how the court system works.
