6 Questions to Ask Yourself When Choosing a Divorce Lawyer
When the decision to get a divorce has been finalized, and you realize that you need a lawyer to move forward in the process, a whole group of questions is sure to follow. Choosing a lawyer for your divorce should not be a task that is taken lightly, because the outcome of the divorce case has a profound impact on the shape of your future. So how do you go about determining who the right lawyer is for you? Someone you can trust, someone who is looking out for the welfare of your family overall and not just looking for a check? Someone who can be helpful in the long run, if it is needed? Well, here are a few questions to ask yourself when it’s time to narrow down the list.
1. Do I even need a lawyer?
This is a big decision in itself. If it is possible, a lot of people hope to settle the divorce mutually, usually through mediation. Mediation can be quicker, cheaper and a lot less messy. With the option of mediation though, it is still not a bad idea to get a lawyer, whether they are the ones actually conducting the mediation, or representing you throughout the mediation process. For example, Rahul Kishore is trained in conducting mediation, and is also experienced in representing clients in mediation. The ideal outcome for many people who choose mediation is to reach an overall resolution of all matters there, but if some issues are not resolved in mediation, you will have to file in court. In that case, it would save you a lot of time and effort to already have a lawyer who was your counsel in the mediation process, because they’ll be fully aware of the details of the case.
2. What kind of lawyer do I need?
For a divorce, or divorce mediation, a family law attorney is the best choice. They understand the unique family laws in your state, and that understanding will help guide you and your family to the most manageable and amiable outcome. If the case involves any large asset division or child custody, these factors should have an effect on what kind of lawyer you choose within the family law category.
3. Is there a large amount of marital property that needs to be divided in this divorce?
The division of marital property is a primary step in the divorce process, and the final decree on this decision will impact your financial future and the financial future of your family. If your marriage’s financial situation is very complex, or infers a large financial risk and asset division, then looking for a lawyer with a financial background would be a smart choice. For example, Rahul Kishore has a bachelor’s degree in Finance and Economics, and a Master’s in Business Administration, so this background and knowledge can be very advantageous in any case where assets of substantial value have to be divided.
4. How can I reduce the negative impact of the divorce on my kids?
The focus of most parents with any children, especially young children, will be to ensure the least amount of negative impact on them throughout and after the divorce. Look for lawyers with training in custody mediation or experience in complex custody cases. Rahul Kishore is trained in child custody mediation and also handles cases involving children with special needs, to ensure that the divorce’s effect on your children will be at a minimum, helping to benefit the entire family moving forward.
5. What can I afford?
Divorce is not the cheapest solution to an unhappy marriage, but sometimes it is the best one or even the only one. When the decision to divorce has been finalized, and it is time to determine how to approach it, the question of affordability and options should be one of the first ones you ask. That’s why sitting down and evaluating what you can afford early is key, so you can assess all your options for divorce, e.g. mediation or a court case, and see where you want to invest your funds. Sometimes paying the higher cost for a more experienced and skilled lawyer to ensure a secure financial future can be the best decision.
6. Do I know anyone who has gotten divorced before?
This last question is an important one indeed. If you have any close friends, family or colleagues that have gotten a divorce before you, they can be a very helpful guide during your divorce process. They can give you advice on timing, they can recommend lawyers, or they can even just be an ear to listen during a stressful time. Regardless of how or why you reach out, you should at least reach out. Having someone who has gone through the experience on your side can help you avoid vital mistakes and make the lawyer selection process and overall divorce process smoother and cleaner.
Other things to consider:
- Location of lawyer
- What questions to ask the lawyer in the interview (experience, approach, cost, etc.)
- Overall connection you and the lawyer have
- The lawyer’s experience and overall skill
Choosing a lawyer, someone on your side to fight for you, is a big decision in the divorce process. Getting yourself into the right state of mind, and knowing what factors to consider and what red flags to look out for, can save you a lot of time, stress, and money. Make sure to take your time during this process, and if you have any questions about divorce, the divorce proces,s and all of your options, please do not hesitate to contact Shah & Kishore and we would be happy to set up an appointment to assist you.