Help Through Troubled Times – Divorce Lawyers are Wonders
Figuring out what you want
The first and most important step for a spouse seeking divorce lawyers is to establish what it is that you want him/her to do for you. You mustn't think that he/she will fight your case and win it for you without knowing what your expectations are based on. You need to figure out what exactly it is that you want from this legal relationship. You could consider these questions before beginning your search for an attorney.
- Do you want to be involved with the whole process or do you just want your lawyer to handle all the matters?
- Do you want to maintain a healthy relationship with the kids or are you more concerned about the financial implications associated with the divorce?
- Have you considered joint child custody?
- Will your impending divorce turn out to be a battle or will it be a friendly settlement?
- Will you relocate to another geographical area on the completion of the divorce process or are you likely to live in the same neighborhood?
- Does the cost of your attorney bother you?
How to narrow down your options
With so many good divorce lawyers around, it may be difficult for you to narrow down the options of your potential attorney to a minimum. Here are a few ways that may help you:
- Use the internet to search for attorneys in your locality. There are a number of law firms that allow you to hire their services by registering online. You also have firms who state on their sites as to what exactly they specialize in. You have an option to sort by specialty and by location.
- All practicing lawyers belong to a state Bar Association. These associations have lawyer referral services wherein they ask you a few questions about your case, the type of lawyer you're looking for, their specialization, etc. Based on what suits you best, the association will provide you with a list of attorneys who they consider fit to fight your case. They will even set up a meeting with the lawyer you want and usually, the first thirty minutes are free!
- Research advertisements in the papers and yellow pages. They often have contacts of the most reputed divorce lawyers in the city.
- Consult your friends and family and ask for referrals. You may also seek help from colleagues at your workplace if anyone has been through a divorce case before.