As published in The Florida Villager.
The Importance of Finding the Right Attorney
When embarking on a divorce there are so many things that have to be worked out. The first one is finding an attorney, if that is the route you and your spouse decide. Some couples have gone what I call the “kitchen table” route which is them sitting down and doing it all themselves, but most people will need to sort out an attorney.
You can acquire an attorney several ways. You can ask friends or colleagues for their recommendations, you can scan the internet, ask your accountant or you can consult a divorce coach. Working with a divorce coach can help lessen the anxiety of a divorce in many ways and leading you to an attorney is one of them.
I have compiled a list of questions that I give my clients when they are looking for an attorney. Whether I recommend them or they are looking on their own, I always ask them to interview 3 attorneys. Not all attorneys gel with everyone, and it is imperative that you find an attorney you are comfortable with, and you feel understands you. Something to remember is that the most expensive is not always the best for what you need. Also, be realistic. Attorneys are expensive but a divorce not properly planned out and negotiated can be even more expensive in the end.
Questions to ask:
- In what increments do you charge for your time?
- Have you done high contentious cases?
- Have you worked with a narcissist?
- Are you readily available?
- Do you think outside the box?
- Are you open to working with my divorce coach?
- Can you give me the name of several forensic accountants?
- Remember, you are not looking for your best friend, but someone you feel you could work well with.
- Collaborative vs litigious.
- Communication
- Don’t negate red flags or your gut.
- Do your research, interview at least 3 lawyers.
- Have you worked with my spouse’s attorney? What was that relationship like?
- Are you collaboratively trained?
- How many years have you been practicing family law?
- Look for an attorney that only does family law.
- How many of your cases have you settled out of court?
- If we have to go to court, are you comfortable with that?
- Will you or another attorney from the firm be handling my case? I would like to meet those that will be involved with my case.
- What is the experience of the others who will be working on my case?
- Do you have a heavy case load? Will you have time to devote to my case?
- If I need to reach you, what is the best time of day and how do you prefer? Email or phone?
- Will I receive copies of all documents related to my case?
- Do you work with a specific team i.e. financial person, divorce coach, therapist or do I need to find my own?
If you have a special needs child, you want an attorney that is knowledgeable in that field or works with someone who is. When discussing the parenting plan, it’s very important to consult someone on this as the needs of the child are different and must be taken into account.
#There is Power in Divorce More Articles