One of the most asked questions at Divorce Angels is “How do I choose the right lawyer for my divorce”? All too often we have heard stories from people who have wasted time, money and energy with the wrong lawyer.
Figuring out where to turn when you’re faced with Divorce is a difficult task.
The first question you need to ask yourself is “what are you trying to accomplish”? Could your divorce situation qualify as an uncontested divorce? If you and your spouse are amicable, perhaps mediation or collaboration is a possibility. You need to determine if your situation is contentious in that you need a” shark” to go to battle for you — note an adversarial divorce can be quite expensive! If your situation is simple and straightforward, it may be beneficial to choose a lawyer with a warm personality and caring nature.
Determine the kind of personal and professiional style of legal service you are going to need will help you choose the best lawyer to guide you.
At Divorce Angels we try to help you narrow down your choices so that you can find a divorce lawyer that’s right for you – so that you experience a more efficient, less expensive divorce.
3 things to keep in mind when choosing your Family Lawyer….
1. Your Lawyer is NOT your therapist.
Remember, this is a legal process. The sole purpose is to dissolve your assets and determine custody arrangements (if you have kids). Your lawyers job is to look out for your best interest and make sure you are represented fairly throughout the process. Your family lawyer is not equipped to be your therapist and honestly doesn’t want to be. Remember time is money and family lawyers bill by the hour. They have higher rates than therapists and coaches and you are wasting your money if that’s how you use them. With this in mind, choose your lawyer based not only on the connection you have with them (which is important) but also on their ability to get your job done quickly and efficiently.
2. Know what you want.
Before you hire your family lawyer consider all the alternatives to traditional litigation. There are many options to consider: If children and finances aren’t an issue, then maybe you could hire a mediator (legal or family). Many people in this situation find Mediation to be the cheapest and fastest way to get divorced. Perhaps finding a family lawyer who specializes in Collaborative is more your style. A collaborative lawyer is focused on negotiation with the goal of preserving your relationship with your ex. If your situation is a somewhat more complicated, you may just need a family lawyer to negotiate a settlement with your spouse’s lawyer. Your last resort is litigation and this usually occurs when neither side will compromise.
It is important to know all your options before you see a family lawyer – there is no point wanting to settle via collaboration, mediation or even litigation and then finding out the lawyer your hired doesn’t do this.
3. Interview and Research Potential Family Lawyers
Clearly, you need to hire a lawyer that specializes in family law and one that’s experienced in the specific type of divorce you think is best for you. The ideal attorney has the legal knowledge and experience you need, helps you understand the process, communicates well and makes you feel comfortable.
At Divorce Angels we have profiled lawyers that have expertise in all areas. We have given you people that we know and trust will take care of you. You will notice we give you four options per category. We feel it is important that you interview a few great people to find the right match. Remember, you will be spending a lot of time with this individual over the coming months.
We have also provided you with a rationale on why we like and recommend each professional. We hope that this gives you some insight to help streamline your interview process.
… And Remember, we are always here to help!
The Angels
