No two divorces are the same. For some couples, it is a fairly straightforward process. Spouses are on friendly terms and may even remain so for years after their marriage is dissolved. For other couples, however, feelings have been hurt, tempers run hot, and the process may be quite protracted. Couples may have children, own property and businesses, or have extensive financial holdings, all of which add extra layers of complexity to the proceedings.
Regardless of the situation, it’s important for those involved to find the right divorce attorney for them. Someone who will be able to fight for their interests and get them as favorable agreement, ruling from the Court, as possible. How does one go about accomplishing that? Take a look below and read our list of 6 helpful tips to finding the divorce lawyer that’s right for you.
Don’t Be Deceived by Flashy Gimmicks
What do the world’s best attorney and the world’s worst attorney have in common? It’s just as easy for either one of them to get a great-looking website. Don’t be fooled by a bunch of flashy nonsense. All a good website means is that the attorney knew to hire a good designer. Legal know-how and the ability to effectively represent you goes deeper than that.
Set Goals
Besides the obvious, what do you want from your divorce? Don’t be afraid to set goals. Yes, it’s possible some of your expectations will be unrealistic, but until you set the goal and have a chance to discuss it, you’ll never know. Knowing what you want extends to your lawyer as well. What kind of experience are you looking for? While there are exceptions, many have found that large firms can sometimes offer a more impersonal experience than mid-size or boutique firms. Some prefer that. Others are looking for a more personal relationship. A firm that specializes in Family Law is a good place to start your search.
Do Your Homework
In the same way issues faced by your friends and acquaintances won’t necessarily be the ones you’re facing, an attorney who works well with your friends and acquaintances won’t necessarily work well with you. Do your research. Read up on which lawyers do what well. If a friend went through their own divorce, who do they recommend? If you and your spouse own a business together, look for a lawyer who’s experienced in that area. Your divorce will be stressful enough. Doing the legwork now will make the rest of the experience run that much more smoothly.
Shop Around
Doing research online is great. Likewise, for asking friends and family for their experience and recommendations. But while an attorney may look great on paper, it’s possible the two of you won’t click once you’re in a room together. Meeting with a potential attorney, where you can ask questions and get a sense of who they are and how they work can save you a lot of time., and help you make an informed decision.
Make a List
What is it you want to know? It’s always a good idea to sit down ahead of time and think through the questions you have. In an interview setting, a conversation can take unexpected turns. Because you’re discussing sensitive matters, emotions may run high. You could walk out of a meeting and realize you forgot to ask many of the questions you wanted answers to. Going in with a list of questions will help keep you on track.
Beware of Overselling
Whether a divorce agreement is decided by a court or between two spouses, it’s highly unlikely everyone involved is going to come out of it with 100% of everything they wanted. It’s more common for there to be some compromise, with each side giving up at least a little bit of what they wanted. Any divorce lawyer who tells you they can get everything you want is not setting realistic goals, and at some point, is bound to leave you disappointed.
In the end, the most important thing to keep in mind is to take your time. This is an important decision, and choosing an attorney you don’t work well with can make an already stressful experience even more stressful. If you have a question about what an experienced divorce attorney can do for you, or any other questions about the divorce process, call us at (214) 273-2400 and let’s talk.
Source: Family Law - ondafamilylaw.com
