There are several reasons why someone might choose to hire a divorce lawyer. Spouses that currently share custody of their child or children will certainly want to establish custody rights and rules, and having an external party present is helpful. Having a lawyer handy can also result in a far fairer and safer outcome—for everyone.
Still, it’s essential to know which questions to ask a divorce lawyer before making a final decision on one. Avoiding nasty financial surprises, emotional arguments, or unfair custody battles begins with the right questions. Keep reading to discover the five most important things everyone should ask their divorce lawyer candidates.
Questions to Ask a Divorce Lawyer
Don’t sweat the small stuff when screening a pool of potential lawyers. Focus on the big picture. Here are a handful of questions to point you in the right direction.
1. What Experience Do You Bring to the Table?
Some lawyers handle a variety of case types. Others specialize in a particular field, such as divorce proceedings. It’s vital to ask candidates about their specialization, as well as what kinds of cases they typically agree to take on.
During this conversation, it’s a fantastic idea to ask about educational background and depth of experience. A practicing attorney should be able to quickly and honestly relay this information to you. If the candidate refuses to answer these questions or seems nervous while explaining, it may be best to choose someone else.
2. What Is Your Typical Strategy and Approach?
Some divorce lawyers prefer to mediate and help couples settle outside of court. Others are far more aggressive and court-oriented. Each spouse will likely have a preference for either in or out-of-court settlement. So, it’s crucial to choose an attorney with a similar mindset.
When a divorce case also involves child custody issues or child support problems, an attorney may be necessary. Reach out to an experienced Child Custody and Support law firm for more information.
3. What Are My Payment Options?
Lawyers can charge per hour, per task, via contingency, or by combining various methods. However, each law firm sets a distinct payment policy, and attorneys may charge additional consultation fees. Discussing payment options and fees is essential.
Don’t wait to inquire about payment options. Otherwise, you may be surprised by a heft consultation fee!
4. What Potential Pitfalls Do You Foresee in My Case?
An experienced divorce lawyer should be able to take the basic facts of your case and make a plan of action. This plan will also include predictions of potential setbacks. By preparing for the worst, you and your attorney can ensure a better outcome.
5. How Would We Communicate With Each Other?
It’s imperative to know how a potential lawyer intends to keep in contact once they’ve agreed to take your case. Some attorneys may prefer email, while others are determined to call. Still, others may prefer to use webcams and text messaging services.
Always choose a divorce lawyer whose preferred method and rate of communication matches yours. Otherwise, you may find yourself out of the loop.
Ask the Right Divorce Questions
Divorce consultation questions don’t have to be complicated, lengthy, or intrusive. Keeping to the above five points is a fantastic way to keep deliberations short and data brief, allowing anyone to make the wisest and most practical choice.
The right questions to ask a divorce lawyer are the ones that will enable you to gauge their experience, cost, background, and reputation. Never feel intimidated or afraid to ask pointed questions regarding previous caseloads. Though the prospective attorney may not be able to provide case details, they should be able to show evidence of consistent work.
Divorce isn’t exactly a fun activity, but it doesn’t have to be a nightmare. A smoother, calmer route for some spouses may be an experienced divorce lawyer. An attorney can handle the paperwork, act as a mediator, and ensure that both sides are satisfied.
If you need a friendly, capable divorce lawyer, contact us today!
