There are nearly 75,000 family law and divorce lawyers, along with 62,000 law firms in the industry, across the US. Before choosing a divorce lawyer, it helps to know exactly what you need. Otherwise, you might choose an attorney who lacks the expertise relevant to your situation.
You might find filing for divorce more difficult as a result.
Here are a few tips that can help you narrow down your options for lawyers. With these tips, you can feel confident in your final choice before beginning the legal process. Read on to start your search for an attorney today.
Consider Your Situation
Before you begin searching for a divorce lawyer, it helps to consider what type of divorce you’re interested in.
Some divorces are amicable, while others can lead to hostility and arguments. With some divorces, you need to consider assets, children, and other factors. Even your current living situation with your spouse can impact the situation moving forward.
Determine if you’re interested in mediation, litigation, a collaborative divorce, or a cooperative divorce. Take the time to research each potential legal option to decide what best suits your situation.
As you begin building a list of options for lawyers, make sure the attorney specializes in the divorce processes you’re interested in.
For example, maybe you’ve decided mediation is the best way to end your marriage. In that case, make sure to find an attorney who specializes in mediation. Their specialized expertise can help streamline the process moving forward.
Gather Referrals
One of the easiest ways to streamline your search is to turn to friends and family members. If you know someone who has filed for divorce recently, talk to them first. Ask if they can recommend a divorce lawyer.
If you don’t know anyone who hired a divorce lawyer, that’s okay. Ask friends if they’ve hired an attorney for another purpose. For example, maybe they hired a personal injury lawyer after a car crash.
Determine if the law firm they hired also specializes in divorce cases.
As you speak with friends and family members, consider asking questions about their divorce case experience. For example, you might ask:
- How long did the process take
- What type of divorce did you choose
- Was the lawyer experienced
- Did you encounter any problems
- How much did their services cost
- Were you satisfied with the outcome
If your friend encountered problems while working with the attorney, ask how the law firm remedied the problem. Look for a law firm that prioritizes its clients.
If you’re unable to gather referrals from friends and family members, begin searching online instead. Visit the Martindale-Hubbell law firm directory online to get started. You can also check your local bar association’s website for a list of law firms and attorneys.
While you’re online, look into each lawyer’s experience and work history.
Look for Specialized Experience
Now that you have a list of options for lawyers, deep dive into each attorney’s work history and accomplishments.
First, determine how long each attorney has practiced law. It’s important to make sure they have years of experience locally. Some procedures and laws can differ based on where your divorce is filed.
A lawyer with years of local experience might also have professional connections that can benefit your case.
Meanwhile, finding a lawyer with years of hands-on divorce case experience can give you peace of mind about their abilities. These lawyers are less likely to make costly mistakes when handling your divorce. They’ll understand the process to ensure you don’t encounter unnecessary bumps down the road.
About 630,505 divorces are filed every year. Ask each attorney how many divorces they file on an annual basis. If it’s only a few, keep searching.
Look into the lawyer’s credentials, too. Determine if they have any certifications from local or national associations. For example, they might have a certificate from the National Board of Trial Advocacy.
These attorneys have extensive courtroom experience and can therefore prepare you if your divorce proceedings go to court.
A Strong Case History
Ask each attorney about the recent divorces they handled. What type of divorces were they? Make sure they handled divorces similar to your own.
For example, perhaps you have a high net worth divorce case that requires specialized experience. Maybe your divorce involves children. Perhaps your spouse is abusive and hostile.
Look for an attorney who has experience relevant to your needs. Then, ask about the outcome of each divorce. Determine how the attorney handled the situation.
Learning about the recent cases they handled can help you determine if they’re capable of handling your case.
Client Reviews
You can also learn more about each divorce lawyer by speaking to people who were once in your shoes. Ask each lawyer for at least three references. If you can, speak to clients who were involved in a case similar to your own.
Then, ask each client about their divorce case experience and the attorney.
Make sure the lawyer you choose has a positive reputation. Their reputation can speak to their abilities to meet your needs and expectations.
Otherwise, check the law firm’s Better Business Bureau and Google Business listings for client reviews.
Review the Contract
Ask at least three lawyers about their fee structure. Make sure you can afford their legal services.
Before choosing a divorce lawyer, keep an eye out for potential red flags. For example, maybe the lawyer kept checking their phone or computer during your meeting. In that case, there’s a chance they might not dedicate time and attention to your divorce in the future.
They might hand your case off to a junior attorney at the firm.
Pay attention to how they speak, too. Make sure they’re confident and easy to understand.
Then, review your notes to choose an attorney best equipped to handle your case.
Select the Best: Start Choosing a Divorce Lawyer Today
Choosing a divorce lawyer shouldn’t feel as complicated as filing for divorce. Instead, use these tips to streamline your search. Then, choose an attorney who is capable of accomplishing your goals.
With their help, you can simplify the process moving forward.
Want to discuss your divorce needs with a member of our team? We’re here for you.
Contact us today to get started.
