Divorce is not only a sensitive and emotional issue, it is also a complicated area of law. The decision you make can have a big impact on your emotional and financial situation for the rest of your life. This is why it is important to choose the right attorney who is going to help you through such a tough time in your life. Your attorney is going to work with you and look at the facts of your case. He/she is going to advise you on obligations and rights. The attorney you decide to work with should have the experience and resources needed to help you with your case. Choose the right attorney because he/she will have the biggest impact on your case. Felicetti Law Firm suggests that you consider the following:
Ensure the Attorney Fits Your Needs
You should choose an attorney who is experienced in handling similar cases. If you are anticipating a financial valuation issue in the process involving a closely-held business, pensions, partnerships, deferred compensation plans, stocks, or substantial property, then it is a good idea to work with an attorney who has experience dealing with such issues and laws pertaining to the unique financial situation. It is even better to work with an attorney who has professional relationships with financial experts such as appraisers and accountants. If your case involves complex financial issues, then it might be better to go with an attorney affiliated with a firm with diverse resources such as real estate, corporate, tac, and trust/estate department. You are going to save time and money by hiring an attorney because they will help you when complicated financial questions come up during the process.
If you expect a contested custody dispute, then you should choose an attorney who has a lot of experience with trials and courtrooms. The attorney has to be sensitive to your needs, and someone who is going to commit to the best interests of the children. Look at attorneys that are familiar with the judges in your county and their rulings. This is good because he/she can identify potential issues and come up with the best arguments. This is going to help you with your case a lot.
Go for an attorney who you trust and feel comfortable working with. Start by getting referrals from your family and friends. Make a call to the local bar association and ask for references, they will be ready to help you. Make sure you meet with a different attorney before you can decide to pick one. You will understand how the different lawyers are going to handle your case. Find more about the law firm by visiting their website and checking out reviews. Research more about the attorney’s specialization or expertise. Is the law firm reputable? Has the attorney dedicated his/her practice to family law? Is the attorney known for practicing family law in the community? How are they going to bill you? What expenses are you going to be charged? How much is their retainer, and do they refund it if not depleted?
Making the Most out the Initial Consultation
An initial consultation gives you the chance to learn more about the attorney. You can learn a lot by meeting them once. You first need to gather all the important financial documents like tax returns, pay stubs, K-1 forms, W-2, current bank, retirement account, and brokerage statements. Take the documents when going for an initial consultation. Have a list of all your assets and liabilities because it is going to let the attorney know your current financial situation. The more information you provide, the better the advice you will get during the initial consultation. If you have already been served with legal papers, bring them along. There are some questions you can ask the attorney. Write them down so you can remember them when meeting the attorney.
- Have you specialized in family law?
- Have you handled cases like mine before?
- Do you have courtroom and trial experience?
- Is there someone who can handle an emergency when you are not in the office?
- How quickly do you return calls?
- Which counties have you practiced in, and are you familiar with the judges?
- What are your billing rates and billing procedure?
- Are there other individuals who are going to work on my case?
- How are you going to inform me about the progress of my case?
- How are you going to approach my case?