Hiring a family law attorney to represent you in a divorce is nothing to be taken lightly. If you think it’s something you can accomplish on the spur of the moment, it’s probably best that you think again.
Each time you meet with a potential attorney, there are several questions you need to ask before you make the final decision on who to retain. The following four questions are among the most important. Once you have the answers, you’ll find it much easier to proceed.
What Experience Do You Have as a Family Law Attorney?
Obviously, you want to hire someone with adequate experience to handle your divorce. This is not a good time to opt for an attorney who has just passed the bar exam. Granted, he or she may be extremely knowledgeable in regard to the law. However, this doesn’t mean they’re comfortable in a courtroom setting. Feeling comfortable in court is something that takes time.
How Will I Be Charged?
In regard to fees and the actual payment process involved, you need to have answers to questions that pertain to the following:
- Retainers
- Hourly rate
- Available payment plan, if any
- Hidden costs, such as filing fees, paralegal fees, phone conversation fees, photocopy fees, etc.
Who Will Handle My Case?
About Parenting suggests that you inquire about the basic logistics of your case. More specifically, you need to find out who’ll be personally handling the case and if that attorney or attorneys have time to give your case their full attention.
Many divorces are very complex. If your legal counsel doesn’t have adequate time to assist you, it can end up being very detrimental. There’s nothing worse than realizing this, in the middle of your proceedings.
Do You Have Malpractice Insurance?
Unfortunately, nothing in life is guaranteed. There’s always a chance something may go wrong. Never retain an attorney who doesn’t have malpractice insurance. In the words of the old adage… “it’s better to be safe than sorry!”
According to Canadian-Lawyers.ca, some attorneys send out a questionnaire before your initial meeting. If this happens, send it back as soon as possible along with any documents that may be requested. The questionnaire might actually provide some answers to your questions in advance.
Work with the Right Lawyer for the Right Outcome
Ending a marriage is never easy. Unfortunately, the most complex cases can drag on for months or even years. A divorce lawyer is going to help you navigate the complicated and frustrating legal process of divorce, which is invaluable during this often stressful period in your life.
At Galbraith Family Law, we know that soon-to-be ex-spouses have a difficult road ahead, and we have helped countless men and women sort things out their divorces smoothly
If you want to learn more about your divorce options, or you need legal representation, contact us today, and start your new life on the right foot.
