Choosing an attorney to represent you in our divorce entails more than just settling for a name; it means developing a healthy relationship that will perhaps extend for a period. It’s estimated that on average, divorce court process last about a year, which means you have to liaise with your lawyer throughout this period. However, not many people end up finding a suitable divorce lawyer for their case. This can be as a result of ignorance, stereotyping, or just the lack of prior experience associated with this court process, which is often dynamic and complex. Often, you will hear stories of people seeking divorce settlements lawyers, just to find them spending almost a fraction of what they are demanding.
There is a distinct line between the right divorce attorney and what could be a successful case. A good divorce lawyer defines amicable split between your and your partner. Apparently, court proceedings, especially divorce cases are known to cause emotional upsets and financial nightmare. But if you have no idea on the qualities of a right lawyer, you’re probably on the stressful road touring a failing case.
Below are 4 steps you need to follow when looking to hire a divorce lawyer
Personal Interests
Irrespective of the lawyer’s credential or experience, your satisfaction is paramount to foster a healthy relationship. In case you are not comfortable with a lawyer, it’s advisable that you halt any negotiations and seek other options. The fact that you are going to disclose your private life to the attorney, it warrants for very serious considerations. Your private life should remain private.
Other personal factors such as the type of litigation to apply in your case will affect your choice of lawyer. Some of the litigation alternatives include mediation, collaboration, and negotiation, which act as a basis to define different divorce cases. Typically, divorce attorneys will try to steer your case according to previous success stories. It’s up to you to understand your needs and what you expect from the entire divorce process, so that you can make the right decision.
Interview Several Attorneys
In family law, it’s necessary to know the kind of lawyer seeking to represent your claims in a justice court. While others hire the first lawyer they come across. Others schedule interviews and get to know more what these divorce lawyers offer. Lawyer’s service fee and mode of payment is also a crucial factor in determining the suitability of a lawyer. Are there additional costs to incur? And what about retainers? Do they charge on an hourly basis or what some of the payment options they have? These are some of the important questions that need clarification before hiring a divorce lawyer. Additionally, you can find an attorney that offers a free consultation, take advantage of that and learn everything you need to know about your case. Listen and find out how different lawyers are planning to handle your case. However, don’t choose a lawyer based on what they promise to do, every lawyer can do that. Instead, let them paint a clear picture on the possibility of winning your case.
Although there are other steps you need to go through before choosing the right lawyer for your case, personal compatibility and lawyer’s success litigation serve as the pivot point in this decision-making process. Other steps you may need to factor include the location of a lawyer, credential, quality of assistance, reputation and flexibility of a lawyer. Depending on the urgency of your case, it’s reasonable to take enough time finding the right divorce lawyer.