Divorce can be more than an emotional upheaval- it is also a legal battle that if not handled correctly, can leave spouses devastated, devoid of their parental rights, and wreak havoc on the lives of innocent children. Sometimes, couples may choose to divorce quietly and without waging a bitter battle against one another. These divorces are considered; “uncontested” and many couples choose to work out the agreements and terms of their divorce together. These divorces may even be entered upon with out the aid or assistance of an attorney, (however, it is important to realize that divorce is a legally binding contract and should always be reviewed by an attorney) and may be resolved quickly, simply, and with the best interests of the children in tact.
Yet, it is also possible that the divorce proceedings will be “contested”. This means that both parties do not agree upon the terms of divorce, or they cannot come to an agreement. It is vital to ensure that you have an attorney that will represent you and your case with expertise, experience, and keep your best interests at the forefront of the case. However, it may seem very challenging to determine which divorce attorney will best meet your needs. Here are some tips that will help you in your search for a divorce attorney that will help you through this difficult process.
First, it is important to look at the background of any divorce attorney that you are seeking to hire. You should find out if the attorney has a good reputation among the community. If you have a friend who went through a divorce, asking them for personal recommendations is a great way to begin. Word of mouth is still the best form of advertising, and finding out if your friends or family members felt comfortable with and trusted in their attorney is a great way to find the attorney who will best represent your case.
Once you have found a few attorneys that were recommended you would need to narrow down your choice until you have selected the attorney to represent you. This is where it will pay off to do your homework. One of the first steps you should take is to schedule a free initial consultation with the attorney. The attorney should make time to sit down with you, listen to your case, and let you know what they can offer you. The first consultation is essential for giving you the information that you need to make a well-informed decision. Make sure to write down the most important questions or points of your case beforehand, so that you take advantage of the consultation wisely.
When you go to the free consultation, be sure to take note of how the office staff treats you. If you don’t feel comfortable or feel as if the legal staff treats you, then there are good chances to believe that the attorney isn’t running their office as diligently as he or she should. Observe how the employees greet you as soon as you walk through the door.
It is also important to note whether or not the attorney specializes in family law. You should inquire about how many family law cases the attorney handles per year. By taking the time to research several attorneys and doing your homework, you can ensure that you will choose a highly qualified divorce attorney who will best meet your needs.