How to Tell If a Divorce Lawyer is Competent and Experienced? 

When you hire a divorce lawyer, you want to make sure that they are competent and experienced in dealing with your case. This is particularly important if your case involves complex issues like child custody, property division, and alimony. 

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  1. Your lawyer should explain everything to you clearly and fully, both in terms of the law and the court proceedings.

It’s easy to get overwhelmed during the divorce process, so it’s crucial that you understand your rights and how the legal system works so that you can make informed decisions about your case. 

  1. Your lawyer should take an interest in you and your situation.

Divorce is a very personal issue and your attorney should take an active interest in you as a person and your unique needs. This includes a willingness to spend time with you and discuss your personal goals. 

3. Your lawyer should treat you with respect.

If you hire an arrogant, disrespectful, or even aggressive attorney, that can be a warning sign that your case will not go well. It’s not just a bad fit for you; it may also lead to your case being dismissed by the court. 

4. Your lawyer should be emotionally stalwart and confident.

When it comes to your divorce, you need someone who is able to stand up to both your ex and the judge. Your attorney should have the fortitude and confidence to handle all aspects of your case with a positive attitude. 

5. Your lawyer should have good judgment. 

The best divorce attorneys are not only well-versed in their legal expertise, they also have a deep understanding of how local family courts work and are willing to evaluate the specifics of your case to make important judgment calls. For example, does your attorney believe that a collaborative approach or a trial-like settlement is the best choice? Do they think joint custody is a better option than sole custody? 

6. Your lawyer should always be available.

There is a lot of waiting involved in divorce cases, and your attorney should be punctual to every meeting and appointment. This can help prevent delays and pitfalls that could cost you time, money, and potentially lose your case. 

  1. Your lawyer should keep you updated on everything that is happening in your case.

A good lawyer will be able to keep you up to date on your case as it progresses, including the filing of documents and any court deadlines. 

  1. Your lawyer should make you feel heard and understood.

When you meet with your lawyer for the first time, pay close attention to their word choices and body language. These things can tell you a lot about how invested they are in your case and whether or not they understand and value your needs. 

  1. Your lawyer should provide you with all of the relevant court documents and correspondence that are part of your case.

It’s also a good idea to ask your lawyer for references from other clients, as this can give you an idea of how they work and what their experience has been like. This can also be a helpful way to get a sense of whether or not you will be able to work with them.