Perhaps the most common mistake people make when hiring a divorce attorney is deciding that they don’t need one. The second biggest mistake may be just choosing the first name they find in the phone book or on an internet search results page.
Evaluating a lawyer based on the 10 qualities below can help you find the right attorney to guide you through an upcoming divorce.
Experience
Finding an attorney who has handled divorces similar to your own will help you get the best results.
Proximity
There are lawyers all over, and they will most certainly agree to work with you if they practice law in your state. However, they will likely bill you for travel time if they have to go to court hours away from their office.
Communication
Can you speak comfortably and effectively with them? Finding a lawyer who matches your communication style is key.
Flexibility
Everybody’s unique family needs are different, and you want an attorney who will adjust their expectations and practices to meet your specific situation.
Transparency
They should be honest about their billing practices and what services they can provide.
Patience
You will have to provide information and documents throughout the divorce. Do you need someone who will trust you to get the work done or someone who will repeatedly remind you about these details?
Accessibility
Do you want to be able to talk to your lawyer quickly, or would you prefer keeping costs lower by working with their paralegal?
Attitude
Do you intend to take a razed-earth approach to marital property, or do you hope to negotiate outside of court? You need someone with the right attitude about resolving your marital issues.
Honesty
A lawyer who swears they can do whatever you want may not tell you the hard truths you sometimes need to hear.
Compassion
How willing is the lawyer to hear the details of your case and help you understand the unique legal concerns your issues may generate? Do they treat you with kindness?
Taking the time to evaluate potential lawyers before hiring one to help with your pending divorce will ensure a good fit.
