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Key Factors to Consider When Hiring a Divorce Lawyer

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Did you know that in 2024, about 43% of marriages in the United States end in divorce, a number that has been steadily declining in recent decades? 

There are many reasons why couples end up in divorce. Poor communication can lead to misunderstandings, unresolved conflicts, and emotional distance.

Cheating or breaches of trust can damage a marriage. Financial problems can be another cause of stress in a marriage.

Divorce lawyer Michael J. Thompson says that dealing with issues like division of assets, alimony, spousal support, or child custody complicates the divorce process.

This article will show how a divorce lawyer addresses these complications and protects your rights throughout the process.

couple signing divorce decree with family lawyer

Experience and Specialization in Family Law

For a divorce case or any other important issue, see to it that the attorney under consideration has experience in the field of family law. 

A competent divorce lawyer is experienced in handling common divorce issues such as child custody and support, property allocation, and alimony.

Their knowledge and understanding of the local law and procedures may help expedite the process.

You need to establish the nature of your marriage to give your lawyer more context about your situation. If you are in a common-law marriage, you need to check your local laws for more information.

Is common law marriage recognized in California or other states? Observe how your lawyer answers this question to gauge his/her knowledge of family law.

When choosing the best fit for your case, select one with a winning case record in areas that are similar to yours.

Find someone who specializes in divorce. Your lawyer should be up to date on the latest changes to divorce law.

Communication Style and Availability

Another characteristic of a lawyer you need to look out for is their communication style and availability.

Check how your lawyer listens to your concerns and explains legal jargon. Their explanation should be simple and straightforward to understand.

A lawyer prioritizing communication means you’ll be as informed and as involved as possible at every step of the process.

Inquire about their preferred mode of communication, such as phone calls, emails, meetings, or other forms of communication.

Assess your comfort level with your lawyer. Being comfortable with your legal counsel allows you to discuss sensitive and private matters with them. 

A lawyer’s availability significantly influences the outcome of your case. A readily available attorney can provide case updates quickly and address any urgent concerns or questions. 

Understanding the fees and payment methods involved when hiring a lawyer is important. Some legal professionals charge by the hour, whereas others use fixed rates and retainers.

If they charge by the hour, they’ll bill for each hour worked on your file. Fixed rates are one-time payments for services. Retainer fees pay for your attorney’s availability.

You can request a breakdown of all the fees involved in the case. Inquire about any additional fees, such as expert witness fees and processing fees. 

Client Reviews and Testimonials

When selecting a divorce lawyer, client reviews and testimonials are important. These assessments may give the client an overview of the lawyer’s efficiency, communication style, and overall client satisfaction.

Past clients’ testimonials might give additional insight about the lawyer and how they handle cases.

Aside from the law firm’s descriptions, you need to check out independent review sites for fair opinions. A lawyer with numerous positive testimonials may indicate that the lawyer is good in his field and manages divorce cases well. 

Comfort and Trust in the Lawyer-Client Relationship

You need an empathetic attorney who knows what you feel to help you cope with the divorce proceedings.

Schedule a preliminary meeting with some of your prospective attorneys to determine your level of comfort with them.

Ask questions that appeal to you and focus on their responses. A strong lawyer-client relationship built on trust will help you get through the divorce process successfully.