3 Important Things To Consider When Hiring A Divorce Attorney
The decision to file for divorce is never an easy one. Choosing an attorney to represent you in your divorce can be one of the most important decisions you make during this long and stressful process. When choosing which attorney to hire, consider these 3 things before making your decision.
- Experience – You want to choose an attorney that specializes in divorce. The more experience they have in cases similar to yours, the better. While you may be tempted to go with an attorney with a different specialty due to cost, this is never a good idea. Just like medical doctors, attorneys specialize in many different areas. You wouldn't go to a podiatrist for a heart condition, just like you shouldn't go to the wrong kind of attorney for a divorce.
- Communication – Not only do you want an attorney with extensive experience in divorce and family law, but you need an attorney that you feel comfortable talking to. You will need to talk about personal and emotional topics so it is very important that you are able to effectively communicate with them. It is also very important that your attorney communicates in a method that is beneficial to you. Whether you prefer to communicate by phone, in person, or by email, make sure that your preferences are in line with the attorney's. You should also take note of which methods are the most expensive. For example, attorneys often charge in minimum time increments, so even a quick one-question phone call may end up costing you much more than you would think.
- Cost – Divorce can be a huge expense, so it is important to discuss the fees your attorney will be charging. In addition to your attorney's retainer and hourly rate, there are also filing fees and other expenses. While your attorney will not be able to give you an exact price on how much your divorce will cost, they can give you a ballpark idea after discussing your case with you. It is important to have an accurate idea of how much the entire divorce is going to cost so you can make a plan on how to pay for it. Another smart idea is to discuss how your attorney will require you to pay. Most attorneys require an upfront retainer, and then you are responsible for the ongoing costs and fees. Make sure you understand how and when you will be expected to pay and that it is something that you are able to follow through with. Discuss any concerns you may have ahead of time so that there are no surprises or issues that will end up stalling your case.
No matter which attorney you decide to have represent you, make sure that you have thoroughly reviewed the above topics to make sure that they are the right lawyer for you. Every case is different, with unique needs. Make sure you take the time to find the divorce attorney that best suits you and your situation.
For professional legal help, click on this link http://www.glfamilylaw.com or do an online search.
