How Do I Choose A Divorce Attorney?

How Do I Choose A Divorce Attorney?

Choosing an attorney is the most important step of a divorce process.

Here is some advice to consider to help you with your search!

Understand the Role of an Attorney

Divorce is undoubtedly emotionally draining. But it is better to call a friend, family member, or therapist who can and be there for you and listen to your concerns.

Fees

Although your divorce attorney is also “there for you,” they are probably charging hourly, so you should use this time to strategize instead of to vent.

Know What You Need to Get Out of Divorce

If there are children or significant assets involved, it is likely your divorce may end up in a trial. But if you and your ex-partner can settle the separation outside of court, a lawyer who is also an experienced mediator could be better suited for you.

Research Divorce Attorneys Near You

If you have never looked for an attorney before, you may not know where to begin. If you asked for referrals from friends and family but still could not find anyone, contact your state Bar Association.

Once you have found some names, visit their websites, and check who you will work with, the types of divorce cases the firm deals with, and other variables that can make choosing easier. Also read all of their reviews on Google and other sites if available.

Schedule Meetings With Your Top Choices

Once you’ve narrowed down your options, schedule a few meetings with your top choices. Some attorneys offer reduced rates, so remember to ask when you plan the meeting. Come prepared with any documents you might need for this first meeting. The more information you can give, the better you will be able to decide if this firm is right for you. Also, do not be afraid to ask questions.

Find a Good Negotiator

The goal of the divorce should be to come to a fair settlement and to avoid court. Some lawyers prefer to fight in a trial, but that method makes the case much longer and much more expensive. By reading attorney backgrounds and reviews you should get a sense of what their philosophy is and how they approach cases.

Find Someone Who Has Experience With Your Interests

If you have children and can predict a problematic custody dispute, you need to be sure your attorney is very familiar with how the support and custody laws work in your area. But if you have a business and the lawyer does not have much experience with business distribution and valuation, you may want to keep looking.

Ask the Right Questions

When you meet with a lawyer, bring a list of questions about your concerns in the divorce case and your concerns in choosing an attorney. Ask how the firm bills its clients and about the billing rates for every person who will be working on your case.

Communication With Office

Be sure your attorney or someone else in the office will return your phone calls within a reasonable time and that you will get copies of all correspondence and pleadings received and generated. Also, be careful if an attorney guarantees certain results. They can only promise to use their best efforts in representing you.

Develop Good Communication

Above all else, you and your attorney have to be able to communicate effectively. Your attorney can give you your choice of options and suggest the probable outcome of each option. Remember, nothing is certain here, and there are no guarantees.

Takeaway

Getting divorced is certainly a difficult process, one that you will definitely handle better with a good attorney by your side. Do your research, meet with your top choices, and you will be able to make the right decision.

Attorney Diaz has over 25 years of practice in family law issues.  If you would like to discuss the specifics of your divorce case or need help with a family law case, call Debora A. Diaz Esquire at 727-846-1802 to schedule a consultation or use the Scheduling Link: https://deboradiazlawscheduling.as.me/.  At this time, all consultations are by telephone or video conferencing in order to protect our staff and clients.

Attorney Diaz practices exclusively in divorce and family law in Florida. Debora A. Diaz is also a Florida Supreme Court Certified Family Mediator.

Written by Debora A. Diaz, Esq.