How to Choose a Good Divorce Lawyer

Author: Len Stauffenger

Choosing a lawyer is like choosing a doctor. You want to find someone who works well with your personality and legal needs. Just because someone is a good lawyer doesn't mean he or she is the lawyer for you. When you're looking for a divorce lawyer, keep these tips in mind:

1. Check out the lawyer's personality.

If the attorney is too vehement or impatient, it might not bode well for you or do you too much good. A divorce is stressful; you'll want a lawyer that stays calm so that he or she can help keep you calm. Additionally, you'll want to find a lawyer who is willing to take the time to answer your questions and who understands what is important to you. For example, if the most important part of the divorce to you is getting a reasonable custody settlement, you'll want to avoid the lawyer that keeps returning to financial settlements in your discussions.

2. Don't underestimate the power of technology.

There are software programs that you can use yourself that can make divorce proceedings such as division of property and child support more efficient. Furthermore, sometimes it's easier to keep in touch via email when you both are busy (as long as your lawyer isn't opposed to phone calls and face-to-face meetings when you need more detailed explanations.)

3. You need someone who has the courage unfolded to tell you the straight truth.

Your lawyer should be willing to be honest with you as well as understand divorce laws. This honesty comes from his or her knowledge of the law and what the likely outcome will be. If your request will likely end up unfavorably to you, your lawyer should be honest. Likewise, you'll be stressed during the divorce. Your lawyer is the one who should remind you what is important and what should and shouldn't be pursued.

4. Your attorney must understand all of the complexness around divorcing.

Divorce is not just a legal issue. It involves the law, crazy emotions, children, property, money - you name it, it's involved in the divorce. If your lawyer spends most of his or time talking about winning or losing the legal battle, he or she may have lost sight of everything else that is affecting you. Find someone who understands divorce support and will be able to help you keep all aspects of the divorce in perspective.

5. Find someone you can afford.

You need to be up front with your attorney if you are worried about paying his fees so that some equitable arrangement can be made. You might be able to change from an hourly fee to a flat rate program that clearly lays out what is involved.

Finding a lawyer is not as simple as calling the first person you find in the yellow pages. Don't be afraid to call several divorce lawyers and go on to discuss with them your expectations and specific situation before you make your final decision. It's also helpful to ask the people you know for recommendations.

Len Stauffenger's parents taught him life's simple wisdom. As a divorced dad, he wanted to share that simple wisdom with his girls. "Getting Over It: Wisdom for Divorced Parents", his book, is the solution. Len is a Reiki Master, an author, a Success Coach and an Attorney. www.wisdomfordivorcedparents.com

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