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If you are considering filing for divorce, it is probably in your best interest to hire a divorce attorney. This being said, don’t just hire anyone. Especially since you’ll be paying around $250 per hour for his or her legal services.
Before deciding on a divorce lawyer, there are crucial things you need to ask. Consider the following topics when meeting a potential divorce lawyer to ensure you are getting the best bang for your buck and the best lawyer for your unique situation.
Does he or she offer a free consultation?
Majority of divorce lawyers offer free consultations, which you should definitely take advantage of. Come with a list of questions (such as these ones) to your consultation to ensure you don’t forget to ask the important questions. Also, don’t be afraid to shop around.
“In selecting a divorce lawyer, there is no substitute for an in-person consultation,” says Austin divorce lawyer Abraham Kant, “you need to feel you can relate to the attorney on a personal level.” If you don’t feel you can relate after your initial consultation, that attorney may not be the best one for you.
What is the ultimate goal?
When meeting with or talking to a prospective divorce attorney, be sure to let him or her know the ultimate goal for your divorce. The attorney should be able to provide you with insight into whether or not your goal is attainable and the process to achieve your goal, if possible.
What is his or her fee structure?
Divorce isn’t cheap. That being said, you shouldn’t go into severe debt hiring the “best lawyer” in your town. As long as a lawyer’s rate is competitive for the area, you should prioritize other factors, such as accessibility and agreeableness, over price.
Also, consider his or her fee structure: are services billable to the hour or by retainer? Will you be paying for the hourly rate of legal staff as well? Are you expected to reimburse the firm for incidental costs related to your case? Asking these questions up front will prevent unforeseen charges in the future.
Is the attorney local?
It is incredibly important to have a lawyer who is familiar with the area and local rules as divorce laws can differ. Chances are, they probably are familiar with local judges and fellow legal folk which can be used to your advantage in court proceedings.
Do you actually like this person?
Your divorce lawyer will be your confidant, negotiator, and advisor, so the answer should be yes. You’ll be dealing with the person a lot.
What is his or her response rate?
If an attorney does not have time for you before you hire him or her, chances are things won’t change once you sign the paperwork. Be sure to ask who you will be your main point of contact, whether the firm’s secretary, paralegals, or the attorney themselves, so you are not kept in the dark as to who you should be corresponding with.
Also consider an attorney’s rate of responding to texts, emails, calls, etc. Whether the prospective attorney claims to be available all day every day or only works between 9 AM and 5 PM, be sure to pick an attorney who suits your communication style.
What is included on the paperwork?
Before signing on with your divorce attorney, make sure the fee agreement or representation agreement is in writing so you know what is expected on both sides. The agreement should list the hourly rate of attorneys and legal staff alike, who is in charge of your case, and if you will need to reimburse the lawyer or firm for costs associated with your case.
Just like every union is different, so is every divorce. Before deciding on a divorce attorney, use these seven tips to help give clarity to who might be the best fit. Take the time to find the right divorce attorney for your unique situation; it’s worth it!
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This content is sponsored by Sam Larson.
Photo provided by the author.