If you’re meeting with a family law attorney, odds are that you are in one of the most emotionally challenging times in your life. Ending a relationship, arguing over assets and finances, and determining custody schedules is hard. The legal professional you choose to represent you can have an impact on the volatility and effectiveness of the process. Here are a few steps you can take to make sure you find the right representation for you.
How Many Attorneys Should I Consult With?
There is no one right way to approach Family matters because there are no two cases that are exactly the same. There are several dynamics at play and so much depends on your unique situation, your relationship dynamic, and the approach you want to take. In the same way that you might consult with multiple physicians or car salespersons until you find one you trust, it is reasonable to meet with more than one Family Law attorney, to make sure you are choosing the one who is the right fit for you.
Is Family Law Their Primary Practice Area?
The practice of family law requires not only knowledge in that primary field but also knowledge in a vast array of other legal areas that affect families. While a real estate attorney, for example, could technically represent you in your divorce, it is extremely inadvisable for the same reason that you would not want your dentist to perform brain surgery. Likewise, if an attorney only infrequently practices family law, you should expect they might not be up to pace on current trends and law. There are too many specifics at play to risk working with someone who might be a great attorney but not knowledgeable in the correct field.
Can you Build A Professional Relationship With The Attorney?
Working with an attorney effectively, especially a family law attorney, is about building a relationship. You want to choose someone you think you can get along with personality-wise. This also involves understanding how you will communicate with them, what actions they will take on your behalf, and how they will interact with the court and the opposing side. Will they be talking to you primarily over email, phone, or in person? How will they document your conversations and wishes? Do they have staff or other attorneys who will assist? When you have a question, what’s the process to get your questions answered? You should talk through these basic ground rules and set expectations upfront so you both know what to expect from one another.
Additionally, you should only work with someone you feel you can trust and that you can work with. Sometimes personalities just do not mesh, and no matter how perfect a fit they may be on paper, they are not the right attorney for you, and that’s okay.
Are They Experienced in Mediation or Collaborative processes?
There is a misconception in family law that everything always ends up in court or that you need a “bulldog” advocate. While those issues can certainly be contentious and end up in front of a judge, there are other, much more amicable options, which can result in better outcomes. If you’re looking for a more civil and family-friendly solution, it is important to seek education on those options and select an attorney who is going to support the type of process you want. Ask if your attorney has any experience leading that kind of process. The process you choose will also have an impact on how long the process takes, how much it will cost, and your overall emotional toll.
