Questions To Ask a Divorce Lawyer in an Interview

Making the decision to file for divorce or being served with divorce papers is a frightening and confusing event in any person’s life. Amid the worry and confusion, hiring a divorce lawyer could make the divorce process much easier. However, you have to choose the right divorce lawyer because within family law, there are several subspecialties.

Below are questions that you should ask the lawyer at the initial consultation.

How Many Matrimonial Cases Have You Handled?

You need a divorce lawyer who is experienced and is ready to go to trial, if that’s the last resort. If they have handled many cases and has been practicing for a long time, this could mean that they are an expert in the field.

How many cases went to trial?

If the attorney has done a lot of trials, it shows that they are not a good negotiator. You want a lawyer who can negotiate smartly and help you get what you want. This is a factor you should consider especially if the attorney has not been practicing for long.

What Strategy Would You Use For My Case?

One of the main reasons for an initial consultation is to get a legal opinion and advice relevant to your case. With complete accurate information, an experienced divorce attorney should be able to explain to you how he or she would handle the case and what you can expect.

Are You Available to Take Phone Calls?

A good attorney should be able to respond to emails or phone calls within 24 hours. If the attorney is not a good communicator, you may feel overwhelmed by the whole divorce process.

Will Anyone Else Be Assisting You on My Case?

A good lawyer has a team working on your case. There are times when associates or other attorneys will work with you; you may want to know how their billing is handled.

How Long Will it Take to Resolve My Case?

The length of time depends on the attorneys, judges and how complicated your case is. In a case where children are involved or there are complications arising from division of property, the divorce could run for a year or more.

What is Your Retainer?

It’s important to know what the lawyer charges and if you can afford it. Attorneys charge differently. How much you pay as retainer fee will be based on the complexity of your case, area of practice or attorney’s experience.

Will I Get a Portion of My Retainer if I Change Attorneys?

This is an important question especially if the first attorney does not perform according to your expectations. You want to know whether you’ll receive a portion of the retainer if this happens.

What is Your Hourly Rate?

Divorce lawyers charge different rates. Most charge an hourly rate against the retainer. Keep in mind, experienced lawyers may charge higher hourly rates.

What is Your Charge for Phone Calls, emails and Letters?

Some attorneys will charge for phone calls, emails and letters. Most will charge a minimum fee after a quarter hour plus the cost of whatever fraction of the hour. Knowing this in advance should help you determine if you can afford the lawyer.