Tips for Hiring a Divorce Lawyer

Hiring a divorce lawyer is rarely an easy thing to do. Most often, divorce is a volatile and emotionally charged event which creates stress and communication breakdowns. Taking time to locate the appropriate divorce lawyer can save you from facing additional stress and help you reach an amicable agreement.

Clients often spend a lot of time talking to their divorce lawyer and staff. It is important to work with an attorney whom you feel comfortable with and offers services suited for your situation.

Legal experts recommend consulting with at least three divorce attorneys before making a commitment. Begin by developing a list of potential candidates. Ask friends or family for referrals; review ads in local telephone directories; search online; or visit the American Bar Association to obtain a list of nationwide attorneys.

Two types of divorce exist – contested and uncontested. The majority of people prefer uncontested because it is the least stressful and costly. If you and your spouse are able to arrive at agreement on how to divide assets peacefully, it is considered an uncontested divorce.

If your spouse does not agree to divorce or you find yourself in endless arguments over ownership of possessions, your divorce falls into the contested category. Contested divorces can drag on for months; particularly when children and valuable assets are involved. They end up costing both parties more money and time than uncontested divorces.

Sadly, divorce can bring out the worst in people. In many cases, uncontested divorces become contested. Couples begin fighting over personal belongings, financial and real estate holdings, child support and alimony, and even who will gain custody of pets. Knowing which direction your divorce is headed can help you locate a lawyer who possesses the experience you require.

Divorcing couples with minor children should seek out family law attorneys. Couples with substantial real estate and financial portfolios should work with a divorce lawyer experienced with tax and financial matters.

Once the list of candidates is created, contact three or four divorce lawyers to arrange a meeting. Prior to the consultation prepare a list of income, expenses, real estate holdings, and financial assets.

Determine the outcome you desire. Do you want to continue living the home you purchased with your spouse or would you prefer to sell to your partner or place the property on the market? Who should be held responsible for outstanding debts? Are you seeking full or joint custody of children?

Prepare a list of any questions or concerns you have prior to meeting with divorce lawyers. After meeting with each attorney, engage in due diligence to determine if they are in good standing with the American Bar Association. If the law firm has a website, take time to review attorney and staff biographies and client testimonials. Conduct online research to determine if complaints have been filed against the attorney and if so, what were the circumstances?

Realize, hiring a divorce lawyer is not cheap. Rates generally range between $150 and $500 per hour. Therefore, it is imperative to hire an attorney who is proficient with time and possesses experience with the type of divorce you are undergoing.

The truth is there is no such thing as an easy divorce. Even when both parties are in total agreement, divorce is difficult and emotionally-draining. The sting of divorce can be lessened by selecting a lawyer who is experienced, proficient, and compatible with your personality.