Divorce Checklist: Hiring a Divorce Lawyer

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Divorce Checklist: Hiring a Divorce Lawyer

Joshua

It is very important to invest the time and effort into finding the right divorce lawyer. It is possible that your future and the future of your children will be in the hands of this lawyer, so you must be diligent in your efforts to hire the lawyer that will help more than hinder your desired results.

Remember, all lawyers have a vested interest in the system. It is up to you to manage your lawyer, not just rely on the information he gives you or rely on the methods he uses. And remember, you will always do better negotiating than litigating.

Assemble a list of divorce lawyers from:

* Referrals from family, friends and other lawyers

* Advertisements from professional directories

* Online search of divorce lawyers/attorneys in your area

* Therapists and doctors

Narrow down the list to just a few lawyers.

Call each lawyer and schedule an appointment with those that offer a free, initial consultation.

Don't be afraid to meet with too many lawyers before you settle on one. Any attorney you speak to cannot have a conversation with or be hired by your wife.

Make a list of questions to ask during your initial consultation. Here are some suggestions:

* Do you specialize in family law?

* How much do you charge and what are your payment terms?

* When we meet, when do you start billing me for time?

* Whom do you represent more often, men or women?

* Do you require a retainer in advance?

* How often would I receive a bill from you?

* Would anyone else be working on my case, and if so, who and why?

* How is your reputation viewed by other attorneys that handle divorce-related cases?

* As an estimate, how long would it take for my case to reach a conclusion?

* How long have you been practicing family law?

* How easy would it be for me to reach you by phone?