Divorce is a big step to take and the way you handle it can have a deep-rooted impact on your new-found single life. Regardless of the side you’re on, it is wise to seek the help of a professional legal attorney. But before you click on Google and type ‘divorce law firm near me’ to peruse your legal options, are you sure about the questions you should ask before appointing one?
You need to ask the right questions to your attorney to ensure he can handle your divorce case with proficiency. So, if you’re planning to hire a divorce attorney and you’re already intimidated by the process, here is a list of questions that you should ask.
Question #1: How many cases of divorce did you sort to date?
Just as you select a doctor before surgery, similarly you hire a divorce attorney for sorting out your divorce. Would you ever like to hire someone who has never solved a divorce case? Calling your marriage off is itself a stressful decision and amidst all this, the last thing that you’d want is to check the work of the lawyer to make sure he is doing things in the right manner.
Question #2: Do you execute collaborative divorce?
If you’re in a peaceful mood while ending your marriage, this question is a must. Just as lawyers give you an option of settling outside the court, a collaborative divorce will also put away that ‘let’s contest’ mentality and help you reach an equitable agreement. Collaborative divorces often end up with both the spouses being friendly with each other post the divorce.
Question #3: Are you familiar with my spouse’s lawyer?
Your lawyer knowing your spouse is a different thing than your lawyer knowing your spouse’s lawyer. Though the former is graver, yet the latter situation also needs to be addressed. In case they both had attended just one seminar during their law college, he is good to go. However, if they both were roommates in their law school hostel, it’s better you look for someone else.
Question #4: Do you personally know my spouse?
Is your lawyer related to your spouse? If he is, this could be a concern irrespective of how the lawyer feels for your spouse. There are times when someone’s personal feelings for another person might get in the way of his ability to solve the case without any form of partiality. Hence, it is better not to hire someone who is connected in any way with your spouse.
Question #5: Do you have a prior connection with local family court judges?
When you enroll yourself in a college, don’t you ask other students about how the professors are, how they grade and how strict they are? Hiring a divorce attorney is somewhat similar. Before you hire one, you have to ensure they are well connected with the local judges of family courts. In case the judge who is appointed to your case is not stringent about child custody and you’re someone who’s looking for sole custody, your lawyer has to be aware of that so that he can prepare a tested strategy.
Question #6: Will you be available through email or phone?
Divorce is not something that subjects you to a one-and-done situation. If something urgent happens and you feel the urge to share that with your lawyer before the next appointment date arrives, he should be available over the phone. So, make sure your divorce attorney can be connected over the phone or over email.
While choosing a divorce attorney, don’t ever make the blunder of hiring the first one you meet. Check your options and do comprehensive market research before appointing one for your case.
