When it comes to a divorce, the outcome will be impacted by numerous factors. Choosing the right lawyer is critical to ensure your rights are protected and that you get the best result from your case. During the hiring process, there are many questions you should ask to ensure your attorney can provide the level of service you require.
Divorce lawyers should be attentive listeners and have strong interpersonal skills to help them communicate with their clients. They should also be experienced in a variety of legal areas to maximize their ability to assist their clients. Some of these areas may include negotiating large financial settlements, child or spousal support and business valuation. Lastly, they should have the knowledge and skill to fight for their client’s interests in court if necessary.
Finding the right lawyer will be a long process, but it is important to take your time and find an attorney that you can work with. Before you meet with an attorney, do your homework and research them online. This will allow you to see their approach, style and legal strategy before making a commitment.
Also, ask friends and family for recommendations and referrals. Often, they will have great information about local attorneys that they have worked with in the past and can offer some insight into their experience. Once you have a few potential candidates, set up meetings with them to learn more about them. This will give you the opportunity to ask questions and gauge their personality and communication style.
It is important to remember that the laws vary from state to state, so you will need a lawyer that specializes in divorce law in your state. During your consultation, you should ask the lawyer how long they have been practicing divorce law and what their area of expertise is.
One of the most common misconceptions in divorce is that whoever files the initial paperwork will have a legal advantage in the proceedings. It is important to know that filing the papers does not confer any legal privilege in divorce.
During the consultation, you should also discuss what your goals are regarding custody, property division and support. It is helpful to have a set plan from the beginning as it will make the process much easier for both parties.
It is also important to understand that if you and your spouse can come to an agreement on these issues, it is likely that the court will approve your divorce. This will save you a lot of time and money in court fees and attorney’s fees. Depending on your situation, you may be able to utilize mediation or collaborative law in order to settle the divorce without having to go to court. However, if your spouse is unwilling to compromise on these issues or has hidden assets, a contested divorce will be necessary. If this is the case, you will need a New York divorce attorney to represent you in court. Scheidungsanwalt