8 Essential Questions To Ask A Divorce Lawyer

While there is no easy way to navigate a split between you and your spouse, being proactive and prepared can help this emotional process go more smoothly.

By asking some thoughtful questions before you hire a divorce attorney, you can be confident that you are choosing the best person for the case.

So, to save you time, money and stress, we’ve compiled eight questions to ask:

1. How many years of experience do you have?

   You would not want to go into the operating room with a surgeon who had only seen a few patients. It is the same with attorneys. You want someone with expertise that can understand the unique circumstances of your family law case and advise you on how to deal with them.

2. Can you describe the process?

   While every lawyer is different, and there’s no guarantee of results, there are certain processes and protocols that attorneys commonly follow.  A skilled lawyer should be able to give you an idea of what to expect and provide timelines of cases similar to yours.

3. How often will we communicate?

   Maybe you prefer face-to-face meetings, or would rather talk on the phone than send an email.  It is important that you find out how your lawyer prefers to communicate, and make sure that it aligns with your wants and needs

4. Who will be involved in handling my case?

   Some lawyers work alone, while others will utilize associate attorneys, paralegals and third-party providers. You do not want to hire a divorce attorney you think is ideal for you only to find out that he or she will be passing your case off to someone else.

5. What financial documentation will I need?

   From paycheck stubs to mortgage statements, organizing relevant documents is a key part of being prepared. A potential family law attorney should be able to give you an idea of the documentation that will best support your case.

6. What will all of this cost?

   While your attorney likely will not be able to give you an exact number, learning how they bill clients (e.g., hourly, fixed fee) and deal with additional third-party costs (e.g., filing fees) will give you an idea of the money you’ll have to spend if you work with them.

7. How much will I need to pay as a retainer?

   A retainer is a lump sum payment that you pay to a lawyer to secure their future legal services.

   Retainer fees vary greatly from firm to firm, so understanding what you need to pay up-front will enable you to effectively budget before you hire a divorce attorney.

8. Do you offer mediation services?

   One of the big questions to ask a divorce lawyer is about mediation. A mediator is a professional who can help you and your spouse reach an agreement without having to go to court.

   You may be able to meet with your mediating attorney in-person or via video or phone. Rather than fighting about the issues that are dividing you, the mediator can help facilitate the conversation to resolve problems and move ahead.

 

Separating from your spouse is a big deal, so do not be afraid to interview potential attorneys. You should not have any doubts about who you have chosen to represent you!

We have experience with handling hundreds of divorces, alternative dispute resolutions and family law disputes in California. If you want to learn more about our services, or have questions to ask a divorce lawyer, contact us today