The lawyer you choose for your case could have a huge impact on the outcome. Every lawyer has a unique set of experiences, knowledge, and strategies to call upon during a case. You will need to ask the right questions to find the right lawyer for you.
Here are some of the questions you should ask before hiring a family law attorney.
How Much Do You Charge?
Billing is one of the most common disputes that can arise between a lawyer and a client. Asking about fees before you hire your lawyer will help you avoid any misunderstandings about what you will pay for your case.
Most states do not allow family lawyers to charge a contingency fee for divorce cases. Instead, you will probably pay a flat fee or an hourly fee, depending on the case.
For example, a family lawyer may charge a flat fee to file an uncontested divorce. But if your spouse contests child custody, child support, property division, or alimony, your lawyer will probably charge an hourly fee.
Do You Have Experience in This Type of Case?
You will need an experienced and competent lawyer to get the best possible outcome for your case. Asking a lawyer about similar experiences will help you to gauge the lawyer’s knowledge about your issue and their ability to handle it effectively.
For example, if your child has special needs, you may have unique issues surrounding custody and child support in a divorce.
How Will We Communicate?
The most common complaint about lawyers is that they do not return phone calls. Make your expectations clear before you hire a lawyer.
Discuss the ways that you will be able to reach the lawyer. Ask who you can contact in the law firm when you cannot reach the lawyer. Ask about how the lawyer charges for emails, phone calls, and meetings so you do not get a surprise bill later.
Shopping for a Lawyer
Most lawyers offer a free initial consultation. Use that consultation to ask these questions and any others that you may have. Remember to hire a lawyer who understands your goals and limitations so that they can meet your expectations for your case.
Need a qualified family lawyer? Contact Caveda Law Firm, P.A. to discuss your family law issue.