With so many divorce lawyers in your area, how do you decide which one to choose? The first step in finding the best divorce lawyer for your case is to set some ground rules. This will help narrow down your options, and make it easier to find someone who fits your preferences, style, and budget. Keep reading to learn more about how to find the best divorce lawyer and what you should look out for when hiring one.
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You should never compromise on legal experience
With a divorce lawyer, it’s best not to compromise on legal experience. As you consider lawyers who will represent you in your proceedings, think about how many years of litigation experience they have behind them. The more years an attorney has been practicing law, especially with a focus on family and matrimonial law, for instance, he or she is likely to be able to guide you through all aspects of your case.
You need a good understanding of laws
A good attorney should be familiar with your local laws, but you’ll need to understand some of them yourself. You don’t have to memorize every statute in your jurisdiction, but you should be aware of issues specific to family law that could affect your case. Being able to define terms such as alimony and cohabitation can also help you make more informed decisions when choosing a lawyer.
Ask your friends and family
While you might think hiring a lawyer is one of those things you have to do on your own, it’s worth talking to people close to you. Other people who have been through divorces will likely know of good lawyers in your area; friends, family members, and coworkers can also offer helpful suggestions.
Ask questions during consultation
Divorce is never easy, but a divorce lawyer can help you navigate the legal process. Before you hire one, ask some questions during your consultation. What will your lawyer charge? How long has he or she been practicing law? What types of cases does he or she handle most often? Is he or she familiar with your case?
Check out their previous cases
One of your first stops should be any previous cases that an attorney you’re thinking about hiring has handled. There are a number of free sites online where you can do basic background checks on lawyers and view some of their past work. Don’t assume that because a lawyer has been practicing for years that they’re necessarily good at what they do—what matters is what kind of results they get in court.
Choose from top rated lawyers only
Since all states require you to have a lawyer during your divorce, and lawyers are all expensive, it’s important that you choose one who will actually give you results, rather than just take your money. Luckily, there are ways of finding a good attorney. One method is to ask friends or family members if they can recommend anyone. Another way is to search online reviews from other people who have used that lawyer before.
Follow up on your initial meeting
Once you have interviewed with a potential divorce lawyer, it is important that you follow up and build a relationship with them. One way of doing so is by sending a handwritten thank-you note. In your thank-you note, reiterate why you want to work with their firm and how their expertise in the field is going to be beneficial in helping you move forward through your case. You can do so by citing examples from your initial meeting and saying why it was helpful or insightful.