Preparing a Game Plan: Questions to Ask Your Prospective Divorce Attorney
You have long suspected it but the words have now been spoken; your spouse is filing for divorce. While you may be reeling from the revelation, you must quickly gather yourself and begin preparing for the process. Part of your preparation should include hiring a qualified divorce attorney to assist you along the way.
You have two choices, you could either run a fairly blind online search and hope for the best or ask your family or friends for a referral. Finding a few prospects, however, is only the beginning. From there, you will need to prepare a game plan that includes a series of interview questions to ensure you are hiring the right lawyer to handle your case.
It is important to meet in person with your prospective attorney, whenever possible, even if a face-to-face consultation is not free. In many cases, seeing the attorney's office and reading his or her body language and attitude are as important as the answers to your questions. Take notes during your consultation so that you have them to review as you make your final decision.
Do not be afraid to ask questions; there are certain things you need to know before making an investment. Here are some examples:
Experience and Qualification
- What percentage of your cases involve family law or divorce?
- How many years have you been practicing these areas of law?
- Do you have litigation experience?
- What percentage of your cases go to trial?
- Do you have any special training that distinguishes you from other family law or divorce attorneys?
Communication and Caseload
- With your current caseload, will you have time to handle my case exclusively?
- If not, who else will be involved in my case, including associates or paralegals?
- Will I be able to contact you directly?
- What is your preferred method of communication?
- Will I be billed for telephone or email conversations?
Fees and Firm Expenses
- Do you require a retainer, if so can it be waived or satisfied in payments?
- What is your hourly rate?
- Does your rate change if the case goes to trial?
- Will I be responsible for fees and expenses of other members of your legal team?
- Based on my situation and in your estimation, how much will my divorce cost?
Seeking an attorney to assist with securing your personal and financial future is difficult. You have questions and you need answers. Contact an experienced Geneva divorce lawyer to discuss your needs. Call 630-232-9700 to schedule a confidential consultation today at The Law Offices of Douglas B. Warlick & Associates.
Sources:
http://dealwithdivorce.com/steps-planning/questions-to-ask-divorce-lawyer/12/
http://life.familyeducation.com/divorce/family-law/45529.html
