ARTICLES

Finding and Hiring Your Divorce Lawyer

You should put together a short list of potential attorneys whose practice is concentrated in divorce. Talk with them by phone and discuss your case in-depth. If a lawyer refuses to discuss your case by phone, call another attorney. Lawyers sometimes refuse to discuss a potential client’s case by phone. Instead, they require a paid, sit-down-face-to-face meeting. This strategy works in favor of the lawyer and against the client. It forces you to sacrifice time and money (and the lawyer makes money) just so you can learn the basics about how your case stacks up. To see your investment of time and money pay off, you’ll have to hire that lawyer whether or not you feel comfortable with him and confident in his abilities.

The better practice is to talk with an attorney, by phone, for free. You risk nothing and gain some insight into the strengths and weaknesses of your case. You also get a feel for the lawyer’s capabilities and experience.

If you need to talk with a lawyer about your case, call our office. We’re experienced, trustworthy professionals. The call is free, and there is no obligation.

In your consultation, DON'T focus only on the facts of your case. Inquire about the attorneys' hourly rates, their estimate of the total costs for your case, and their retainer requirements. Ask how many years they've been in practice and what percentage of their practice is in the field of family law.

Ten Questions to Ask When You're Looking for a Divorce Attorney:

What are the advantages of filing first? (If the lawyer says there are no advantages, hang up and call our office. There are many advantages to filing first and you should at least know what you’re giving away before you give it away.)
What can I do to get the best settlement possible?
If my idea of my "best settlement" isn't possible, what is the next best alternative I can expect?
How many associates and support staff do you have helping you?
How long has your practice been concentrated in family law?
What percentage of your practice is made up of matrimonial cases and family law matters?
What are your hourly rates, how much do you think this case will cost, and who will have to pay the attorneys' fees?
How long do you think this case will take?
What is your firm's policy on keeping clients informed and returning phone calls?
What can I do to make the attorney-client relationship most effective?