Choosing the right divorce attorney is one of the most important elements that can impact the outcome of your divorce. With so many divorce attorneys serving the New Jersey area, this is often an overwhelming decision. This is especially true since each person’s needs are unique.
While choosing the right divorce attorney takes time and effort, it is not something you should rush through.
At Sangiovanni Marchetti Law, you can count on decades of experience in divorce law to benefit you and your case. Here, you can also learn about what to look for when it is time to choose a divorce attorney.
Avoid Choosing the First Divorce Attorney You Speak To
It would be best if you met with several attorneys before you pay a deposit to retain one’s services. When hiring a divorce attorney, trust is crucial. You need to trust the lawyer you hire since divorce is personal and emotional.
Schedule initial meetings with a few attorneys to meet them and figure out if you can work with them. If not, move on.
Talk to People You Know Who Have Been Divorced
No one necessarily wants to talk about divorce; however, speaking to friends, family members, or coworkers who have gone through a divorce can help you determine a starting point.
While researching online can give you ideas of whom to hire, talking to someone who has gone through a divorce and hired an attorney is one of the best ways to get real information about what to expect.
Understand the Role of a Divorce Lawyer
Some lawyers are great at listening to why the divorce happened and some of your emotional issues; however, this is not their role. Your attorney is not a therapist, divorce coach, or family member. They are a legal representative hired to help you with the legal aspect of filing for divorce.
With that information in mind, your divorce attorney cannot help you decide if you should file for divorce. This is a personal decision that you have to make for yourself.
Some attorneys are better at helping you understand your emotions and why you make certain decisions than others. It would be best to ask questions about how the lawyer handles emotions during the initial interview.
This way, you will know what to expect.
Have Realistic Expectations for the Role Your Lawyer Plays
Your attorney will help you understand the legal process and how your New Jersey divorce case will proceed.
While some parts are emotional, it is your lawyer’s job to help you focus on the logical aspects of what is going on and your long-term goals. Remember, most divorce attorneys charge by the hour, and others will charge a flat fee. The more you talk, the more you may pay. You will be charged each time you call your attorney to vent about what is going on. This can add up quickly.
Try to leave venting and emotional issues to friends and family members – not your attorney. Doing this can help you keep your costs down.
Understanding what your attorney does from the beginning will help you have realistic expectations regarding your relationship and the whole process.
Determine What Type of Divorce You Will File
This can seem like an unusual decision, but it is one you cannot ignore. It is important to consider if your divorce will involve conflict or not. If you can work everything out with your spouse, then minimal intervention from others may be required.
If your divorce involves a lot of conflict, it may take years to be finalized. You may also have to go to court to get a final decision. If you can agree on important matters, you can take advantage of alternative dispute resolution.
Watch for Red Flags
It is important to find an attorney that will treat your case like a priority and listen to what you say. If you do not get to talk much during the initial meeting, or if you do not feel like the lawyer “gets” you, find someone else.
Other red flags include making promises, not providing examples of your case, or being rushed during your consultation.
Finding a Divorce Attorney That Feels Right for Your Case
After doing your research, you need to find an attorney with the knowledge and experience to handle your case. To do this, you need to know a few things about the attorney’s reputation and how they plan to handle your case. All this information is beneficial when finding the right attorney to represent you during your case.
While the logical side of choosing an attorney is important, remember that divorce is personal. You need an attorney that makes you feel comfortable. Taking time to find this legal representation will benefit you throughout your divorce case.
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