Choosing the right family lawyer can be daunting. Most people rarely work with lawyers, and when the need arises, it’s often under stressful and emotional circumstances. That’s why it’s important to do your due diligence and ask plenty of questions before hiring a lawyer.
While many questions will vary based on your legal situation, there are certain general things you’ll want to know, including:
- Experience
- Approach
- Communication
- Cost
- Expectations
Before attending your consultation with a lawyer, gather your list of specific questions so you won’t draw a blank when you arrive. The following five questions can get you started and help you formulate more specific questions based on your situation.
1. What experience do you have?
One of the most important aspects of choosing a lawyer is finding someone who is not just experienced, but also experienced with your specific type of case. While a lawyer might be able to represent you in areas that are not their specialty, this is rarely the best option. For example, you wouldn’t hire a tax attorney to handle a divorce case.
When looking for a family lawyer, you’ll not only want someone who specializes in family law, but who also understands your specific type of case. Perhaps you’re dealing with custody issues during a divorce, or maybe you and/or your ex are high-income earners, so there are financial issues at play. Focus on finding someone who knows about your specific circumstances whenever possible.
2. How do you approach your cases?
Next, consider the lawyer’s approach to representing you. For many people unfamiliar with how lawyers work, they assume laws are laws and representation is a black and white issue.
This isn’t the case.
Some lawyers are more aggressive than others. Some encourage negotiation, while others are better equipped for litigation. This doesn’t necessarily make one lawyer better than another, but it could make one a better fit for you.
For example, if you anticipate a difficult divorce and your ex has already hired a “pitbull” lawyer of their own, you’ll need a lawyer who is comfortable dealing with such opposing counsel and comfortable in court. On the other hand, if your divorce is mostly amicable, and there is already substantial agreement over parenting (custody and access) or financial matters, someone with a more collaborative approach could help you prevent your situation from escalating into something aggressive.
Finally, many lawyers have the ability to be both collaborative and adversarial. It simply depends on what is called for in a given case. Ask your lawyer if they are comfortable switching approaches should the case need it or should you ask it.
3. What’s your communication style?
Communication is an integral part of practicing law, but unfortunately, not all lawyers are great communicators. And even those that are might not be suited for you.
When meeting with a lawyer, ask about their communication style. Do they check in with you if you are not asking them to? How can you expect to get updates on your case? Will their law clerks be your first point of contact?
Knowing what to expect regarding communication is the easiest way to avoid problems as your case progresses.
4. How much do you charge?
While the cost of hiring a lawyer should not be your number one concern, the cost of your divorce is going to be an issue no matter your income. You need to know upfront if the lawyer you want to work with is a lawyer you can afford.
When discussing prices with a lawyer, be sure to ask about:
- Hourly rates of the lawyer, law clerks, associates and law students who may work on your case
- Retainer fee
- Payment due dates
- Court expenses
- Methods of payment
5. What can I expect?
It’s important that you develop a realistic expectation for the outcome of your case as you work with your lawyer. While no lawyer can predict exactly how things will turn out, they should always be helping you to manage your expectations and giving you a sense of the range of possible outcomes. An experienced lawyer can also anticipate issues and be proactive about keeping things under control in a family law case.
If you’re in need of family law services, including issues related to child and spousal support, custody, or property and pension division, we can help. Call us today to get started.