Posted by January StramagliaMar 16, 2023
- Start Looking Early: You want to make sure that you are prepared when your divorce case is first filed because many of the preliminary temporary agreements or decisions set the tone for your entire case. If you did not retain a proficient attorney to begin your case, it can be hard to recover as your case is litigated, even if you later hire a skilled and knowledgeable attorney.
- Experience: You can ask the attorney in your initial consultation whether they have litigated similar cases in the county that your divorce will take place. Do they have experience litigating custody? Do they have experience dividing assets such as 401ks, pensions, or small businesses?
- Reputation: Find out if the attorney you want hire has a reputation for thorough, quality representation. Remember divorce can be highly contentious, with heated emotions, so you may want a seasoned, poised litigator by your side. Online reviews can only tell you a part of the story.
- Personality: Are you searching for an attorney who will take time to understand your case? Think about how complex your case is going to be. Do you need an attorney who knows case law and statutes? Do you need counsel who can articulate how the law can be applied to your specific circumstances?
- Consider Cost: With attorneys who may cost $300 to $500 an hour, who may bill you upwards of $1,000-$5,000 a month, consider other pricing options that can meet your needs. Would a flat fixed rate for attorney services every month fit into your budget and allow you to maintain quality services for the duration of your divorce?
