Seven Tips for Selecting the Best Divorce Lawyer
The choice to divorce is seldom made lightly, and your preference for legal representation shouldn't be either. But unfortunately, locating the right attorney can be challenging, mainly when the stakes are high. Therefore, to guarantee that your time, money, and trust are appreciated throughout the divorce process, we highly recommend you follow these seven tips when selecting the right lawyer to represent your suit.
Know what you want, and never settle for less
Going into the process, it's essential to identify what amount of support you're looking for —both emotionally and legally— and make your decision based on that knowledge. If you're hoping for a more hands-off approach, be upfront about that. If you prefer an involved attorney who calls more of the shots, acknowledge that and conduct your search accordingly.
Set your conditions and look for an attorney who fulfills them.
Different attorneys have different approaches. For example, some prefer mediation, while others love courtroom appearances. Knowing this, first decide what you prefer and how you would like the process to go. This will assist you with weeding out the attorneys who aren't going in the same direction as you. After all, it's essential to start the process on the same page!
Do your research.
There's more than one way to terminate a marriage, and which path you take can significantly impact the course and length of the processes involved in executing the divorce. As such, it will be necessary to thoroughly research which option best aligns with your goals to decide whether you want a collaborative process, mediation, or traditional litigation.
Consider your options.
Contrary to popular belief, you don't need to rush the process. Doing so could negatively impact the lawyer you choose — and that's something you want to avoid at all costs. Even if you like the first attorney or law firm you meet with, we highly recommend interviewing three other local practices to guarantee you've given yourself a chance to find the best fit for you.
Be meticulous in your interviews.
In our opinion, the hiring step is one of the most critical parts of the divorce process, as who you pick to represent your case can affect the outcome. Ask as many questions as needed to understand the attorney's practice and ensure their goals and objectives align with yours. And, be on guard for red flags like promises that seem too good to be true (they probably are!), an rude feel from the attorney, and an attorney who demonstrates a lack of concern for your privacy.
Stay attentive to what's essential and let the other stuff go.
Divorce can be extremely emotional, even when both parties want it. As such, it's essential to remember: "Don't sweat the small stuff." The right lawyer can help you sort through what's important vs. what's not so you can make choices that count and disregard the rest.
Be savvy about your choice.
In the end, who you pick to represent you through the divorce process should embody what you consider most important (precisely what the above list is about). You will want to pay attention to the lawyer's location, accessibility, responsiveness, and accommodations. These convenience factors go a long way when dealing with a process that can take months, sometimes years, to complete.