While looking for a divorce lawyer, there are several factors you should look for, starting with the initial consultation. The first step is to process all of the information in a logical manner. You should also observe the lawyer’s body language and word choice. If you sense an aggressive personality, you’re better off looking for someone else. However, there are some things you should avoid when looking for a divorce attorney.
Free initial consultations
A good divorce attorney should offer free consultations, as these can give potential clients an opportunity to evaluate their services. During a free consultation, potential clients are able to ask questions about their attorney’s practice, cost, and procedural details. The consultation does not require a long time, and should not last longer than 15 to 30 minutes. A free consultation can be conducted by a lawyer or a good legal assistant. It is important to keep in mind that free consultations do not provide legal advice, guidance, or recommendations.
The attorney must disclose any conflict of interest before the initial consultation. You should be able to find out the full name and location of the attorney you plan to hire, as well as the full names of both you and your spouse. You should also make sure that the lawyer is willing to share as much information as possible with you. You should also ask about any communication fees. If the attorney charges for such communications, you should look for another lawyer.
Observing the lawyer’s word choices and body language
One of the most important aspects of a divorce lawyer’s job is to remain neutral. During the divorce, a divorce attorney studies both parties’ body language to know how to approach each party. If there are children, observing the attorney’s body language is essential, as children pick up on nonverbal cues. If the divorce attorney is not neutral in his or her language, it may be possible for the child to misinterpret what the other person is saying or feeling.
Avoiding a “bulldog” type of attorney
While a good lawyer will understand and adapt to the dynamics of a divorce, a “bulldog” divorce lawyer will be overly aggressive and likely waste your time and money. A good divorce lawyer will present arguments based on law and strategy, not emotion or personal preference. A bulldog lawyer may charge large fees but deliver small results. A good divorce attorney will be able to communicate with you and your spouse in a manner that preserves your relationship and co-parenting harmony.
Another way to avoid a “bulldog” type of divorce lawyer is to ensure that your attorney is certified in collaborative law, a process that will help you resolve your divorce with minimal conflict. A collaborative law attorney will be committed to helping you reach a settlement that is acceptable to both of you. An experienced collaborative law attorney will be committed to helping you reach a resolution that is fair to you and your family.
(For more articles like this, click here: What Should I Not Tell My Divorce Attorney?)