Blog

How to Choose the Right Divorce Attorney

Divorce can be one of the most stressful and painful experiences of a person’s life. The strong emotions associated with it can make going through the often complex divorce process feel like an insurmountable burden. Lawyers who specialize in divorce (a subsection of Family Law) can streamline the entire divorce process, smooth over differences between parties, and offer a sympathetic ear when you’re feeling overwhelmed.

One of the first steps any person seeking a divorce will take is hiring a divorce lawyer in Prescott, and it is easily the most important because a lawyer can guide you through each subsequent step. The first major choice you will have to make after deciding to hire a family law attorney in Prescott, AZ is which one to choose and why.

Why do you need a divorce lawyer?
A Prescott divorce attorney handles cases relating to divorce. A divorce attorney in Prescott, AZ provides clients with legal advice and guidance and helps them navigate the complex divorce process. Lawyers who specialize in divorce can represent their clients during negotiations with their spouse’s attorney as well as in court if needed. Child custody issues, property division issues, and spousal support are just some of the issues that they can assist clients with.

To achieve the best possible outcome for their clients, a family law attorney in Prescott must possess a deep understanding of family law and the legal system, as well as excellent communication and negotiation skills.

Can I afford a divorce lawyer?
Many individuals who are considering or going through a divorce are concerned about the cost of hiring a divorce lawyer. Divorce lawyers in Prescott, AZ who offer a payment plan or reduced rate, legal aid services, or pro bono representation through a local bar association are some ways to make legal representation more affordable.

A less expensive alternative to traditional litigation may also be mediation or collaborative divorce. Before making a decision, do your research and carefully consider your options.

6 tips for finding the right divorce attorney for you
What is the best way to choose a divorce lawyer? The following tips for hiring a divorce lawyer will help you ensure that you hire the right lawyer for your situation and needs.

You should work with an attorney who understands your approach to divorce.

1. Decide which type of divorce you want first
   Divorces are not all the same. Couples split up for a variety of reasons. The decision is sometimes amicable. Other times, this decision creates a great deal of hostility. In some cases, there are a lot of assets, or even children, that have to be considered, and in other cases, they don’t.The living situation and relationship you have with your spouse can have a significant impact on the divorce process. To choose a divorce attorney, you must know what to look for and what you should expect. There are several ways to go about divorce, including arbitration, mediation, litigation, collaborative divorce, summary divorce, contested divorce, and more. Research these methods and choose the one that you think will work best for you. Additionally, you will be able to find the best possible divorce attorney, since most specialize in one or two divorce processes. Thus, if you decide mediation will be the best way to end your marriage, you can focus your attorney search on mediators.
2. Establish a budget
   A budget should include your lawyer’s fees as well as how much money/assets you stand to lose to your spouse if you hire an inexpensive, less experienced lawyer. By calculating how much you are able/willing to spend, you can then narrow your lawyer search to attorneys within your price range.
3. Get recommendations from people you know
   Now that you have determined what type of divorce you wish to pursue and created your budget, you can begin your search for the perfect attorney. The best place to start is with friends and family since it is likely that at least one friend or family member has already been through a divorce (or is friends with an attorney).
4. Put together a list of interview questions
   To make an informed decision, you should schedule appointments (either by phone or in person) with at least 2-3 attorneys (after you have narrowed down your search through personal recommendations and internet research). Interviewing the attorney can help you decide if they are the right person with the right expertise for your case. Create a list of questions in advance, and ensure you go over each question in depth. This will give you all the information you need to make an informed decision. You may want to ask your attorney the following questions:

• When did you start practicing?
• What kind of divorces are you typically involved with?
• Who is your typical client?
• Have you represented clients in situations comparable to mine?While conducting your interviews, don’t forget to carry a pen and paper. Making notes can assist you in recalling the attorneys’ arguments when you are later making your choice.

5. Request a consultation
   Identify a short list of potential attorneys and schedule consultations with each one. You can meet with most divorce attorneys for a free initial consultation, during which you can discuss your case and ask any questions you might have.Pay attention to how the attorney communicates with you during the consultation. What kind of response do you get when you voice your concerns? How well do they explain the legal process? Have they handled divorce cases before? Do they seem knowledgeable and experienced? When it comes to family law in Prescott, AZ, be sure you hire an attorney who answers these questions in a way you are comfortable with.
6. Look for empathy
   When discussing your case with your attorney, it’s important that you feel comfortable and safe. This requires an empathic attitude on the part of your divorce lawyer throughout the process. They need to understand your vulnerability in this scenario and act accordingly.An empathetic attitude will also allow them to listen to you attentively. There are times when they are also able to offer some marital counseling. You should avoid hiring an attorney who acts roughly since divorce cases are often sensitive. It is such a difficult time to go through a divorce, and you need a divorce attorney who can connect with you like a human being and not just a professional.

What to ask a divorce attorney before hiring him or her
Divorce is a difficult process, and hiring the right attorney is critical to ensuring that it is handled fairly and justly. Prior knowledge of the attorney’s communication style, work ethic, approach, and success rate will go a long way in helping you make an informed decision.

Before hiring a divorce attorney, ask these 10 questions:

• How much experience do you have with divorce cases?
• How do you approach divorce cases?
• How do you structure your fees?
• Are you going to be the only attorney handling my case?
• What is the frequency and channel of our communication?
• How do you feel about mediation or other methods of alternative dispute resolution?
• In cases of child custody and visitation, what approach do you take?
• Can you estimate how long it will take me to resolve my case?
• Do you have references from previous clients?
• What makes you different from other divorce lawyers?

Get in touch with a dependable resource today!It is important to choose the right divorce attorney to help you achieve the best possible result. Finding an attorney who specializes in your field of work and has experience with cases similar to yours is crucial. You should also consider factors such as communication style, fee structure, and alternative dispute resolution methods.

Asking the right questions is essential, such as how they approach child custody and visitation, and how long they expect the case to take. A lawyer’s background and references from previous clients can provide valuable insight into their work ethic and success rate, but it’s also important to rely on your understanding and readiness before hiring them.  For more information, click to call or fill out our online contact form.