No two marriages are the same. Most Florida couples wed assuming their unions will last their lifetimes. Studies show, however, many will end in divorce. The decision to divorce often leads to complicated challenges regarding issues including, but not limited to, child custody, finances, business and estate planning. Someone navigating the family law system will obviously want to protect his or her personal rights and interests. This is often easier when outside support is available.
Experienced divorce attorneys often assist their clients in a wide variety of ways beyond the courtroom. For instance, a concerned parent in need of a counselor for a child may benefit from a list of resources provided by his or her attorney that includes names and contact information of local counselors. Lawyers tend to focus on different primary issues in their practices; therefore, finding one that best suits a particular need and goal may increase the chances of obtaining a favorable outcome.
Keep these ideas in mind when choosing an attorney
You probably wouldn’t want to toss a bunch of attorneys’ names into a hat, then randomly draw one out as a means of choosing legal representation. In fact, such nonchalant attention to the matter may prove disastrous! The following tips, however, can help prevent problems and lead a client in need to just the right advocate:
- Word of mouth: Never underestimate the power of personal experience. Speaking to others in your area regarding which attorneys they chose when they divorced may help you streamline your own choices.
- Scrutinize websites: If you’re considering a particular attorney, and you visit his or her website only to find it greatly outdated and not well-maintained, this should signal a red flag that may cause you to reconsider your choice.
- Type of divorce: Nowadays, divorce is somewhat customizable. You may choose mediation, collaborative divorce or litigation. It’s typically best to hire an attorney experienced in the style you prefer.
- Cost: This is often where want versus need comes in. Most people in your situation obviously want to be as frugal as possible, but if you need aggressive and experienced assistance, you must weigh the value of cost over potential loss that could occur through substandard representation. In short, just because an attorney’s services are the least expensive in town, doesn’t mean that’s the best attorney for your particular situation.
It’s always good to spend some time before you hire an attorney thinking about your needs and ultimate goals. What’s most important to you at this time? What’s most important to you and your children’s future? What are the key factors you believe should remain the central focus in your divorce? Which attorney has the best answers as to how to make that happen?
These are just a few of many questions that can help you discern whether to retain legal representation, and how to go about finding the best attorney for the job in your Florida location. Divorce is a complicated, often messy process. While it is possible to go it alone in court, it may not be the wisest choice available.