Hiring a Divorce Lawyer

If you've decided to divorce or have been served with a divorce petition, the first thing you may want to do is hire a divorce lawyer to protect your rights and interests. Divorce laws in your state can be complex, but with the help of a divorce attorney, you can learn more about local laws and make sure your rights and the rights of your children are protected.

Before you hire a divorce lawyer, do your homework. You probably don't want to hire a divorce attorney just because he or she has obtained big divorce settlements or has a reputation for being aggressive in divorce court. Although these things can be important, you'll also want a divorce lawyer who makes you feel comfortable, understands your goals and is willing to work closely with you.

Questions to Ask a Divorce Attorney

When you initially speak with a divorce lawyer, you will have many questions for him or her. There's no such thing as a dumb question when your future is at stake. Some things an experienced divorce lawyer should be able to answer include:

• What are your fees? Can you give me an estimate of what my divorce will cost?
  
• What's your experience in divorce law?
• Explain your philosophy. Is it combative or cooperative?
• How long have you been practicing in this county?
• Do you have any special training or certifications?
• Are there alternatives to divorce court?
• How often do your divorce cases go to trial?
• What is generally involved in the divorce process and how long does it take?
• Do you have associates or other staff that will be working on my divorce? How will you bill for them?
  
• What can I expect to get out of my case regarding marital property, alimony, child support, and custody?

Make sure to hire your own divorce lawyer. It's almost always unethical for a divorce lawyer to represent both sides in a divorce, as the divorce attorney can't adequately represent two individuals who have opposing interests. Although you and your spouse will probably have some common interests, such as the health and welfare of your children, you will also probably have opposing interests. Protect your rights and get as much out of your divorce as possible with the help of your own divorce lawyer. Once you've found a divorce lawyer, you can set up an initial meeting to begin the divorce process.

Connect with a Divorce Lawyer

Get answers to your questions about filing for divorce by speaking with a divorce attorney near you. By setting up a preliminary consultation with a divorce lawyer, you may learn what to expect during divorce and get an estimate of what your divorce will cost. Get started today by calling 877-349-1310 or filling out a divorce case review form.