What Questions Should You Ask Your Divorce Lawyer About Your Case?
The decision you make about the attorney who will represent you as you go through your divorce will have a lasting impact on you and your family long after your divorce is over. You want someone who is experienced in the area of family law, knows the other lawyers practicing in your area, and knows the judges in your jurisdiction. Remember, you don’t have to hire the first lawyer you meet.
Any consultation with a lawyer is confidential, so use that time to be open and candid about your situation. Pay attention to how the lawyer responds to you and your situation, as this will help you determine if this lawyer is the right fit for you.
Here are some questions you may consider asking during your initial consultation to help you determine whether this lawyer is right for you and your case:
- Do you specialize in divorce, or are divorces just part of your practice? How long have you been practicing in the area of family law?
- Are you familiar with my spouse’s attorney? Are you familiar with the judge who would be hearing my case?
- What is your philosophy for handling a divorce case? Do you have certain strategies you think are important or effective?
- Are you trained in mediation?
- Are you a collaborative lawyer?
- What would your strategy be for my case? How long do you think it will take?
- How will you charge me? What is your retainer? What is your hourly rate? How does your billing work?
- How do I contact you? How long do you take to return phone calls?
- Will I receive copies of letters and documents filed in my case? Will I be kept informed of all developments in my case?
- Based on what you know about my case, how do you think a judge would rule?
- Do you have time for my case?
- Will you talk to me before making decisions or planning strategy?
- What are your feelings about me continuing to talk to and negotiate with my spouse?
- Have you been through a divorce?
- Will you help me understand what is worth fighting for and what is not worth fighting for?
- How often do you litigate as compared to negotiate a settlement?
- How much do you think my divorce will cost? (Most lawyers cannot answer this as it will depend on how much conflict there is in your case, but it’s still a good question to ask.)
- Are there other costs I should know about? (like service fees, filing fees, investigation fees, etc.)
- Are there any ways you can suggest to help me keep the costs of my divorce down?
- Is there a way to do this without too much hurt to everyone, including my spouse?
If you have questions, please call Marcy Jones for an appointment at 434-845-2463 or use her contact form to send her an electronic message. Marcy is an experienced Lynchburg family law attorney, trained in collaborative law and mediation.
