A divorce lawyer is your legal advocate in a difficult, emotionally charged process. They make sure your rights are protected, help you work through the issues in a calm and rational way and provide guidance throughout the process. They can also refer you to law enforcement for physical protection in certain situations.
You should hire an attorney who specializes in family law and has substantial experience with divorce cases. The right lawyer will understand your specific situation and can explain complex legal concepts in ways you can easily understand. They will also listen to your concerns and offer you advice about the options for a settlement. They should be professional and prompt in responding to your phone calls or emails.
If you’re going to hire a divorce lawyer, you should take the time to interview several candidates. Ask about their experience, fees and approach to divorce cases. For example, ask them how many divorce cases they’ve handled and what their average cost was. Also, ask them about their philosophy toward divorce and if they have any experience with alternative dispute resolution methods like mediation.
You should also ask the lawyer about their reputation in the community, online reviews and testimonials from past clients. It’s important to find a lawyer who is well-respected in the legal community and respected by other lawyers. It’s also important to avoid hiring a friend or relative of your spouse, as this could be considered a conflict of interest.