Divorce is one of the most stressful things that people can go through. However, in a divorce, it may be possible to control part of the outcome by making careful choices along the way.
One of the most crucial decisions to make is choosing the right divorce lawyer. Rather than picking the first name one finds, it is better to ask the right questions before making this very important decision that will have an impact on your proceedings.
What are the Benefits of Using a Divorce Lawyer?
Besides the separating couple, divorce impacts other family members and friends. The divorce process can be costly and emotional, and an experienced divorce attorney can provide specialized, objective guidance.
Every divorce case is different. Although some situations can be handled through mediation, many cannot. When there are child custody issues, parenting time issues, and significant properties to consider, it is important to have a lawyer who can protect family members, assets, and your legal rights.
How do I Find a Potential Lawyer?
Finding the best divorce lawyer can seem like an overwhelming task but breaking it down into manageable parts is extremely helpful. The first thing to do is to gather a list of names. This can be done by asking acquaintances and relatives if they have any recommendations. Looking online is another good idea, and these names can be added to a list. The selected offices should be close enough so that traveling is not a burden.
Attorneys who specialize in family law are the best for divorce cases. The chosen names can be researched, and eventually whittled down to two or three contenders for consultations. Taking extensive notes during this process is also essential.
What Questions Should I Ask?
A good place to start is to inquire about the attorney’s experience. The lawyer should have considerable experience in divorce cases. If he or she is familiar with the local judges, this can be a valuable asset too. Now is also the time to ask what kind of divorce cases the lawyer has usually worked on, including litigation and how many divorce cases he or she has tried.
Inquiring about fee structures at this point can be a real time-saver, rather than waiting until the end of a lengthy consultation. The lawyer should be able to provide details about retainers, hourly wages, and charges for emails, phone calls, and for the time spent with office personnel. Asking for an estimate on the total cost of the divorce is also a good idea. Some offices are flexible with fees and offer clients sliding scale payments. Court filing fees is another area that can be discussed.
A client will also want to ask a potential divorce lawyer how much time he or she can devote to the case. Firms often have several lawyers and assistants helping out on individual cases at the same time. The lawyer can also be asked his or her opinion as to how successful the outcome might be.
Before the consultation is over, questions should be asked about timing and appointments. The lawyer can be asked how long it normally takes to receiv responses to phone calls and emails, and how and when appointments are scheduled. Finally, a list of references should be obtained.
How do I Know the Lawyer is Right for me?
After each consultation, you should know how well the lawyer is able to communicate. One of the most important things is to feel comfortable, otherwise the divorce process can be difficult. A consultation is a good way to establish that initial connection that can form a successful working partnership. A divorce lawyers that is knowledgeable, professional, friendly, and accessible will be easier to work with.
Moorestown Divorce Lawyers at Stockton Family Law Provide Legal Guidance to Separating Couples
Finding the right divorce lawyer is essential. Our knowledgeable, caring Moorestown divorce lawyers at Stockton Family Law are experienced in complex divorce cases and we will ensure that your rights are protected and that your divorce goes smoothly. Contact us online or call us at 856-412-5052 for an initial, private consultation. Located in Moorestown, New Jersey, we serve clients throughout South Jersey, including Moorestown, Mount Laurel, Burlington County, and Camden County.