The divorce process is complicated enough, so you need a legal team on your side that can help you navigate the legal territory with ease. You should also look for a lawyer who is compassionate and understands the emotional toll of a divorce can take. You should also find a lawyer who has experience in your specific type of case. For instance, a lawyer who has handled many divorces dealing with child custody will be familiar with the intricacies involved and is better equipped to represent you.
You will be spending a lot of time with your attorney, so it is important to make sure that you feel comfortable working with him or her. It is also a good idea to interview several attorneys before making a decision. This will give you the opportunity to compare and contrast their skills, personalities, and pricing. It is helpful to take notes after each interview, so that you can evaluate the pros and cons of each candidate. If at any point during the consultation you felt uncomfortable or ill at ease, this is a red flag that you should keep looking for someone else.
Another thing to consider is the amount of time that a divorce attorney spends on family law cases. You should try to find an attorney who focuses at least 50 percent of their practice on family law, and ideally more. This will give you the best chance of finding an experienced, knowledgeable, and compassionate divorce attorney to guide you through your case.
A good divorce attorney should have a strong command of the local laws, judges, and other lawyers in the area. They should also be well versed in family law issues, including child custody, property division, and alimony. In addition, they should be familiar with the rules and regulations that are in place at the court where your case is being filed.
Lastly, you should look for an attorney who has a good reputation in the community. This is important because it will tell you that they are respected by other attorneys and the judge in your case. It is also a good idea to ask for referrals from family and friends. They will be able to provide you with personal recommendations that are tailored to your situation.
The last thing to remember is that it takes time to find a good divorce attorney. Once you have found one that is a good fit for your needs, it is a good idea to let them know as soon as possible so that they can book you on their calendar. Likewise, you should also make the effort to schedule a couple of appointments with other attorneys just in case your first choice is no longer available. It is a good idea to be prepared for each appointment by bringing a list of all assets and debts, as well as tax returns from the past few years. By being fully prepared for each consultation, you can get the most out of your time together.