Hiring a Divorce Lawyer

Are you wondering what you should look for in a divorce lawyer, what questions to ask, and what can you expect for fees? Look no further!

Factors to Consider When Hiring a Divorce Lawyer

1. Attorney’s Knowledge and Experience

Your divorce lawyer’s practice should focus on divorce and she should have extensive experience in handling divorces like yours; for example, if you are getting a military divorce, you absolutely want someone who has dealt with military divorces.

You can narrow down your search by asking around your circle of acquaintances (especially if you know any lawyers, even if they are not divorce lawyers); you can then research attorneys through your county or state bar association and, later, by asking questions such as the following:

  • Where are you licensed to practice law?
  • How long have you practiced?
  • How many divorces have you handled?
  • What types of divorces have you handled?

2. Accessibility

If setting up an appointment to meet with your potential divorce lawyer has been put off several times or if he hasn’t answered your phone calls promptly, you might want to move on to someone else; your divorce lawyer must be there when you need him.

Some questions you can ask a potential divorce attorney include the following:

  • Who answers emails and how quickly?
  • How often should I expect to hear from you?
  • When can I expect my phone calls returned?
  • Is there someone else to contact in the office for emergencies?

3. Likability and First Impressions

Make a list of the qualities you want a lawyer, which can also include sex, age, type of fee structure, reputation for tenacity (e.g., fight to the finish or looking to settle), and more.

Also, when you go to the divorce lawyer’s office, take a look around. Is it organized and professional? Are the secretary and other support staff helpful?

Overall, if you get a bad vibe from your potential divorce lawyer for any reason, don’t hesitate to move on to another attorney. You must have the utmost confidence in your divorce lawyer — a big part of your life after divorce depends on her.

4. Fees

Some lawyers give free consultations, but it’s not uncommon for a divorce lawyer to charge a consultation fee of $100 to $200 or charge their hourly rate. So, first you want to ask about a consultation fee; if you can meet with a few lawyers who give free consultations, do so. This way you can get a better feel for the type of lawyer you want.

At the consultation, you should ask about the attorney’s hourly rate and a retainer, as well as whether any part of the retainer is refundable; you should also be clear on how often you’ll receive detailed reports of expenses.

Attorneys’ hourly rates vary greatly by location (among other factors), but the best way to judge is to ask around and determine the average for your area.

Some other questions to ask the lawyer include the following:

  • Will there be travel costs of the attorney I’m expected to pay?
  • Will I be expected to pay for photocopies, postage, etc.?
  • Am I charged by the hourly rate or otherwise for phone calls to the attorney?

5. Referrals

The absolute best thing you can do when hiring for a divorce lawyer is follow referrals given to you by people who have used the lawyer’s services.

If you don’t know anyone who has been a client of a particular attorney, ask for a list of clients you could contact.