Divorce attorneys provide assistance for couples to legally end their marriages. They may assist clients in filing completed contracts, representing them during contested hearings or proceedings (such as property, debt, and child custody disputes), and even file completed divorce contracts on their own.
Finding the appropriate attorney requires research and referrals; every situation and individual differ.
1. Ask for Referrals
There are a wide variety of experienced attorneys specializing in divorce and family law who are available for representation. By setting out your priorities and expectations for representation, it will help narrow your search.
Asking friends and family as well as professionals you trust such as accountants or financial planners for referrals may also prove useful in finding an attorney. They have likely gone through the process themselves and can recommend one based on their knowledge and expertise.
Experienced New York divorce attorneys will be better equipped to anticipate challenges and devise effective strategies for your case. They understand the ins-and-outs of divorce laws and have proven their ability to resolve cases involving similar circumstances, such as high net worth assets or child custody disputes. Furthermore, an experienced attorney has extensive knowledge in alternative dispute resolution methods which may provide invaluable insights during settlement negotiations.
2. Do Your Research
Divorce proceedings can be lengthy and stressful, so finding an attorney who best matches you and your case can make them much less so. Spend the time to do your research online in your local area by searching “divorce lawyers”. A simple search such as this one may help narrow down the possibilities.
Once you have identified potential attorneys, research their professional backgrounds and websites. Gather as much information about their experience, approach to divorce cases and fees as possible.
Make use of the internet to research testimonials and reviews from former clients of each lawyer, to gain an idea of their personality and expertise – as well as help determine whether to schedule a consultation session.
3. Schedule a Consultation
Once you have your list, take some time to research each attorney by visiting their websites for additional details about their areas of expertise and approach to divorce cases. Many also feature blog posts or testimonials which could give a deeper glimpse into their experience and values.
Be sure to research their disciplinary record as well as experience with family law and alternative dispute resolution methods such as mediation or collaborative divorce, so as to ensure you choose someone with whom you can work in harmony with.
Trust and comfort should always come first when choosing a divorce attorney, so take the time to find one who fits you well. Bring any documents such as financial account statements, mortgage or deed documents, debt agreements or anything else relevant to your case at your consultation meeting.
4. Ask Questions at Your Consultation
Review attorney directories and professional networks specializing in divorce or family law for recommendations from friends and family, reviews, testimonials and articles providing insight into each lawyer’s practice philosophy and philosophy of law.
An experienced New York divorce attorney should have extensive knowledge in handling cases with various legal issues, complexities and circumstances. At your consultation meeting with them, be sure to inquire as to their experiences handling high-net-worth divorces, custody battles or any other issue often encountered in divorce proceedings.
Ask the lawyer how they approach each case, what legal strategy would best fit for your circumstances and if they recommend trying to resolve your dispute outside of court. Getting answers will help you determine whether to hire them or not; additionally they should also be able to explain fees and payment structures clearly.
5. Hire an Attorney
Find an outstanding divorce attorney by asking friends and family for recommendations. If any have experienced similar challenges – custody disputes or asset division issues – their advice on which legal representative may prove most useful in helping your situation.
At meetings with potential attorneys, pay attention to their communication style. This will be especially crucial in cases such as divorce that can become highly emotional and contentious; you want an attorney who listens attentively and explains legal concepts clearly and easily.