A stunning 39% of marriages in the United States end in Divorce. With that being said, you can imagine that there are a lot of divorce lawyers lined up and waiting to help. If you’re going through a divorce, a reputable divorce Lawyer can keep things cordial, ensure the process is a smooth one, and help you figure out everything that needs to be done. 

However, choosing a divorce lawyer isn’t a quick process.

 You may want to start by asking friends and family if they have a recommendation. Do a bit of research on your own and narrow your choices down to your top three. 

Once you have your top three choices, it’s time to start asking some questions. Here are a few to get you started. 

1. How Much Experience Do You Have?

The first question you should ask is how much experience the lawyer has, not in general, but experience specifically in family law. How many years has this lawyer been practicing family law in your specific state? Each state has its own laws and regulations regarding divorce and other things associated with the divorce process.

Will the lawyer you choose know how to navigate the court systems correctly? Does this lawyer have connections and relationships with judges, lawyers, and other people working in the system? These are all things that’ll come in handy during your case. 

2. What Documents Do You Need From Me?

When hiring any type of lawyer, no matter what the reason is, there’s a good chance that you’ll need to provide him or her with certain documents. Upon first speaking with your lawyer, ask him or her what documents you’ll need to give them. This will give you ample time to gather all information and documents before it’s needed for your case or in court.

Bring these documents with you when you meet your lawyer for the first time and be sure to have copies. Some commonly required documents are your marriage license, all financial information for you and your spouse, children’s birth certificates, any court paperwork, and proof of any wrongdoing. 

3. Have You Dealt With Cases Similar to Mine?

Not all divorce cases are the same. Everyone has their own specific reasons for getting a divorce and other circumstances. Think about your specific circumstances surrounding your divorce. 

What are some things that might make your divorce different from someone else’s? Was adultery committed and you must prove it? Do you have multiple joint bank accounts or businesses owned together? 

Write down all of the specifics about your case and present this information to the lawyer. You’ll then want to ask if he or she has experience dealing with cases similar to yours. Did this lawyer bring these cases to trial? 

What was the outcome of the other cases similar to yours?

4. What Can I Expect From My Case?

You should also ask the lawyer what you can expect from your divorce. Someone with a good amount of experience should be able to give you an idea of what to expect from the entire process and what type of outcome to expect as well. 

Many lawyers have a certain process that they follow and will be able to give you a step by step explanation of how it all works and will explain how to prepare for a divorce as well.

A lawyer might not have this type of information to give over the phone, as they’ll need more information about your case, but once you give them all of your documents and information, they should give you a rundown of what to expect. 

5. What Is the Estimate of Costs? 

Lawyers don’t come free. They also don’t come with one general price tag either. Ask your lawyer about the fees and costs of their services. 

You can’t expect an exact and final cost, but you should be given some type of estimate. Each divorce case is different, and you might not need the same things that someone else does in regards to your case. The amount you pay will be specific to your case. 

6. How Will We Stay in Contact?

Knowing how to get in contact with your lawyer is also important. There might be things that come up with your case either on your side, your spouse’s side, or your lawyer’s side. Because of this, you should always know how to get in contact with your lawyer and know how your lawyer will contact you.

Will you exchange text messages, emails, phone calls, something else, or all of the above? Will your lawyer be the one you contact or will it go through their assistant first? How long does the lawyer need before returning calls or answering emails? 

Find someone who has the best method of communication for you. 

7. What Things Should I Begin Doing Now?

The divorce process can be a long one. It’s best to start doing everything you can as soon as you can. Ask your lawyer what you should be doing at this very moment.

Not many people are experts at getting divorced, but that’s why you have your lawyer. Your lawyer should be able to tell you all of the steps that you need to take starting now and lasting until the very end of the divorce. 

Choosing a Divorce Lawyer Starts Here!

Choosing a divorce lawyer takes time and involves asking a few questions. The questions listed above will help you find the right lawyer for your specific case. Bring these questions with you during your search and find the best lawyer for you!

For more helpful posts on relationships, marriage, and more, check out a few more of our recent blog posts!