4 Things To Consider When Choosing A Divorce Lawyer To Work With

In need of a divorce lawyer? Here are a few things to think about when deciding who you want to hire:

What Specialties Might You Benefit From?

It's important to sit down and make a list of specialty services you feel you might need to take advantage of based on the specific circumstances of your divorce. If you and your spouse still get along, you may want to find a divorce attorney who specializes in representing people during mediation.

If you don't get alone, a lawyer who specializes in making tough negotiations might be a better fit. Are you concerned about making sure that child support and alimony orders are fair? Figure out what situations you expect to find yourself in once the divorce proceedings start so you know what specialties to focus on when interviewing potential attorneys.

Will Ongoing Availability Be a Concern?

If your lifestyle makes your schedule tight, you should consider your availability needs when it comes to working with your lawyer throughout the divorce process. If the lawyer you choose only offers services during traditional business hours, you might find yourself having to take time away from work or find someone else to get your kids to their community activities in order to make your consultations and meetings. You'd need a lawyer to work with who offers evening and weekend hours to accommodate your needs.

What Do Others Have to Say?

It's also a good idea to consider what others have to say about the services they've received from a prospective lawyer before committing to work with them yourself. Ask the lawyer for references and take a close look at their portfolio before hiring them. And take some time to check out reviews on the Internet, where you may find a variety of opinions and perspectives that provide you with personal insight into the thought process and general attitude of the attorney you are considering hiring.

How Are Fees Calculated and Paid?

You may also want to consider how an attorney's fees will be calculated and how you'll be expected to pay for their services before hiring them, especially if you are on a budget. Will you be charged by the hour or by the task? Are consultations and meetings free? Is there an extra charge for attending court if the need arises? And can you make payments or are fees due upon receipt? Make a list of financial questions that are important to you and present the list to prospective lawyers during your initial consultations.