Filing for divorce is never easy, but finding a divorce lawyer shouldn’t feel stressful, too. Unfortunately, there are over 62,000 family law and divorce law firms across the US. The industry employs over 74,600 professionals as well.
Without a plan, you might struggle to narrow down your options. You shouldn’t select a divorce lawyer phoenix without proper research, though.
Here are seven tips that can help you narrow down your options for lawyers. With these tips, you can feel confident in your final choice. You can start filing for divorce with a lawyer who has your best interests in mind.
Start searching for an experienced divorce lawyer with these tips today.
1. Gather Referrals
First, turn to the people you already know and trust. Do you know anyone who filed for a divorce recently? Ask them who they hired.
You can begin building a list of personal referrals to save time during your search. Then, you can use the rest of these tips to narrow down your choices.
As you begin creating a list of referrals, ask each friend you speak to about their experience filing for divorce. They could provide you with helpful tips to streamline the process.
Ask them for more information about the lawyer, too. You might want to make a list of questions to ask in advance. For example:
- How long has the lawyer practiced
- How long have they specialized in divorce cases
- Were they knowledgeable
- Did they accomplish your goals
- Were they easy to talk to and reach
- Would you hire them again
- How much did their services cost
If you struggle to build a list of personal referrals, start your search online. Check your local bar association website. Make sure you find lawyers who specialize in divorce and family law.
Otherwise, visit the Martindale-Hubbell law firm directory. Look for law firms that specialize in divorces.
Then, use these tips to narrow down your options for lawyers further.
2. Look for Specialized Experience
It’s not enough to find a general lawyer who has handled a few divorce cases over the years. Instead, find an attorney with years of divorce case experience. Choose a lawyer who specializes in family and divorce law.
A lawyer with specialized experience will have a better understanding of the laws relevant to your case. They won’t struggle to follow the proper procedures, either.
It’s also important to find a divorce lawyer with local experience. Some laws can vary based on the state. Their prior experience will ensure you don’t encounter any problems throughout the process.
You can reach the team at Familyatty.com to get started.
As you build your list of options, make sure to determine each lawyer is licensed. You can visit your local bar association website to double-check.
Consider how long they’ve practiced law in the area. Otherwise, consider if they have any other certifications that can speak to their expertise.
For example, you might need a lawyer who has extensive courtroom experience. Make sure they have a certificate from the National Board of Trial Advocacy. These lawyers will have an easier time preparing you for court.
3. Consider Case History
Once you have a list of lawyers with divorce case experience, learn more about the recent cases they’ve handled. Over 746,000 couples filed for divorce annually. Determine how many divorce cases each lawyer has handled in the past year.
Family lawyers handle cases that fall into different categories, including:
- Child custody agreements
- Estates and wills
- Prenuptial agreements
- Divorce
If you have a number of family lawyers on your list, consider how many divorces they’ve handled.
Make sure their divorce case experience is relevant to your needs, too. For example, you might need someone with experience handling cases that involve abuse. Maybe you need a high-income divorce specialist instead.
Learn about the outcome for their most recent divorce cases, too. How much were they able to win for their clients? How long did the process take?
Learning about their recent cases can help you determine if they’re able to accomplish your goals.
4. Read Reviews
Before you select a divorce lawyer, look for online client reviews. Reading reviews can help you learn more from someone who was once in your position.
Check the law firm’s Better Business Bureau and Google My Business listing for client reviews. Otherwise, check the firm’s website for testimonials. Make sure the reviews you read are recent.
After all, many lawyers improve as they gain more divorce case experience.
Make sure you choose a lawyer who has a strong professional reputation.
5. Schedule a Consultation
Choose three lawyers on your list and schedule a consultation appointment. Make sure to bring relevant documents with you, such as financial documents or a prenup.
Then, discuss the specifics of your divorce. Ask the lawyer if they’re able to handle your case. What strategy would they recommend?
The consultation appointment can help you fill in any gaps in your research. Make a list of questions you want to ask before the appointment.
6. Look for Confidence
During your appointment, pay attention to how the lawyer holds themselves. Are they confident? Try to find someone with strong communication skills, too.
Otherwise, keep an eye out for red flags. For example, they shouldn’t interrupt you or multitask during the appointment. Instead, find an active listener who will dedicate time and attention to your case.
Ask how many current cases they’re handling, too. If they’re juggling too much at once, they might split their focus. They might hand off your case to a paralegal instead.
7. Discuss Pricing
Ask each lawyer about their fee structure. Determine how much it will cost for them to take your case.
Comparing lawyer fees can help you pinpoint the average cost for legal services.
Don’t choose the cheapest lawyer you find. A more experienced lawyer will likely request higher fees.
Find the Right Fit: How to Select a Divorce Lawyer Without Stress
Learning how to select a divorce lawyer shouldn’t feel as stressful as the divorce itself. Instead, use these tips to find the right lawyer for your case. Their experience and expertise can benefit you every step of the way.
You’ll have peace of mind knowing a capable lawyer is at your side, too.
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