Do you need or want a lawyer?
The first thing to consider is whether you need or want a lawyer to represent you in your matter. To learn more about what a family law attorney does, click here. To learn more about how to evaluate whether you want or need an attorney for your matter, click here.
Cost
Cost can be a big concern when hiring a lawyer. Divorces can be very expensive –refer to one of our previous blogs for more information on how to handle the financial aspects of your divorce. You may want to consider limited scope representation, where the attorney only works on certain parts of your matter, if that will work for your case. Another thing to consider is whether or not you want to ask for the other party to pay your attorney’s fees and costs. The courts like to keep an even playing field when they can, so if the other side can afford an attorney, the court may be willing to award attorney’s fees to the other side. This is something to discuss with a potential attorney.
Special Circumstances
Are there are any unusual or special aspects of your matter? For example, if English is not your first language or your matter involves international issues like property or registering a divorce in another country, it may be helpful to find an attorney who speaks the appropriate language. Or maybe you and/or the other party own a business and will need to make sure it’s valued and divided accurately. An attorney who has experience with cases involving self-owned businesses might be something to look for.
Comfort with the Attorney
It’s important that you feel comfortable with your attorney. Your attorney’s job is to advise you and to represent your interests. If you aren’t comfortable with your attorney or don’t feel like you can tell your attorney the truth, it will be hard – or even impossible – for your attorney to do their job. You and your attorney should be on the same page regarding how you want to pursue your case; for example, focusing more on mediation or settlement if that is what you are looking for. Other things that may contribute to your comfort level with an attorney are their experience level, if they usually practice in your county and know the court system, and if they only do family law or if they also work on other types of cases.
One way to determine if a lawyer is right for your matter is through a consultation. Romanovska Law offers a free consultation, so give us a call and see how we can help with your family law matter.
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