Selecting an attorney to represent you in a divorce really represents one of the more important decisions you face during the course of your life. You need to consider a variety of factors and considerations for a checklist to use when you are on the market seeking a lawyer to assist you in your divorce case.
References And Recommendations
On your divorce lawyer checklist, include reviewing references and obtaining recommendations. Even in this high-tech age, word of mouth remains useful in the process of screening attorneys to represent your interests, according to "Unbundling Your Divorce: How to Find a Lawyer to Help You Help Yourself" by M. Sue Talia. Qualified, professional attorneys should be eager to provide you references to at least a several former clients who are pleased with their representation. Moreover, you likely know more than a few family members, friends and colleagues who utilized the services of divorce attorneys. These individuals can be reliable resources in your hunt for solid divorce case representation.
Experience
No matter how highly regarded a law school an attorney attended, her experience is far more important. Book learning is helpful, but in the final analysis you need to ensure that you hire a lawyer with hands-on experience in representing clients in divorce proceedings. Discuss experience with any lawyer you consider hiring. Specifically question her regarding the types of divorce cases she handled previously.
Fees
A key consideration on a divorce lawyer checklist is finding out exactly the fee charged by the attorney for his services, according to DivorceSource.com. Even in the same community, disparities exist between the fees charged by attorneys who provide divorce representation. Keep in mind that the attorney charging the lowest fee may not represent the best option. Identify a lawyer that charges a reasonable, moderate fee for his services.
Support Staff
On your divorce lawyer checklist, include finding out the details pertaining to the support staff maintained by a particular attorney. Of course, the ability and experience of the lawyer herself is fundamental. However, some of the work associated with pursuing a divorce case tends to be undertaken by a lawyer's support staff. Find out who specifically is part of an attorney's support staff, including paralegals and other personnel.
Retainer Agreement
The divorce lawyer checklist must include obtain a written retainer or engagement agreement when you select an attorney. While handshake agreements are friendly, they do not necessarily represent the best way to contract for professional services. By entering into a written agreement, you lessen the chance for confusion between you and your lawyer.
References
- "Unbundling Your Divorce: How to Find a Lawyer to Help You Help Yourself"; M. Sue Talia; 2005
- DivorceSource.com: Divorce Checklist--Hiring a Divorce Lawyer
