If you’re thinking about dissolving your marriage, finding the right divorce lawyer with adequate experience is a critical step in the process. Not only do you need to hire someone with experience in family law, but also someone who can implement a legal strategy that fits your specific circumstance. As anyone who has gone through the divorce process can tell you, not all attorneys are created equally. The following are things to look for in a divorce lawyer that will help you make the right choice.

The Divorce Process Varies

It’s important that you choose the lawyer that will implement the divorce process you want. During this phase, you’ll decide whether your marriage will be contested or uncontested. If your spouse is agreeable, things can go quite smoothly. If they’re uncooperative, and every single aspect of your divorce is disputed, you’ll want a lawyer with plenty of experience in negotiation. When you talk to prospective lawyers, go over with them what you want out of the divorce.

Affordability

If you own properties and have a comfortable salary, then yes, splurging on a top-notch divorce lawyer is a good idea. If you are living paycheck to paycheck, have no assets and a ton of debt, then hiring a powerful attorney may not be the best option for you. Even if it feels good in the short term to “stick it to your spouse” with a powerful lawyer, you could end up in bankruptcy court before you know it if they cost beyond what your budget allows.

Setting Realistic Expectations:

A divorce conjures a lot of negative feelings on both sides. When you let anger dictate your approach to a divorce case, things can go wrong quickly without the right legal counsel. If you hire an attorney who will do exactly what you want without advising you along the way, then you are setting yourself up for disappointment and unnecessary emotional and financial turmoil. The bottom line is to hire an attorney that will tell you when you’re making a questionable decision, and in turn, will try to steer you in the most advantageous direction.

The Right Experience

An attorney who doesn’t specialize in divorce and custody matters may not be able to provide competent representation. There are many legal nuances in different types of law, so keep that in mind when searching for a divorce attorney. At a minimum, they should have family law experience, as well as experience in your jurisdiction. An attorney who knows the local rules in your county and is familiar with the rulings of your judge will be able to advise you with a better strategy going forward. 

Conclusion:

A divorce will test your emotional, physical, and financial stamina like few other life events can. While there are many things to take into account when you decide you want to dissolve your marriage, finding the right attorney for the proceedings is perhaps the most important thing you can do. For assistance with your family law matter, don’t hesitate to call or visit the professionals at Family Law Richard E. Young & Associates. Our team is ready and willing to attend to your needs.