When people get married they don’t envision their love and commitment ending in legal separation or divorce. Unfortunately, not all love lasts and when it does, the right attorney can make the process easier on you and your family.
It’s important to find an experienced local lawyer who supports your basic philosophy of divorce and has a style that you are comfortable with. You also want to know your budget so you can hire an attorney who will work within it. A good resource for finding an attorney is Nolo’s online Lawyer Directory which allows you to filter attorneys by practice area, experience and philosophy. You can also look at reviews from previous clients and other attorneys to help you find the best fit.
Before you meet with potential attorneys, prepare by putting together a list of questions that cover your specific issues. This will give you a clear idea of what to expect from each. You should also bring a detailed list of your assets and debts as well as copies of tax returns from the past several years. It’s also a good idea to ask about their fee structure. Some attorneys charge a flat rate while others bill by the hour.
During your consultation, you should feel as though you have the attorney’s undivided attention. If they’re distracted by phone calls, emails or text messages it is a sign that they won’t be able to give you the same level of service throughout your case. Additionally, it’s a red flag if they can’t explain the legal process in layman’s terms.
A good divorce attorney is someone who listens to what you have to say, understands your concerns and can communicate clearly with both parties. They will also be able to negotiate and solve problems creatively. If they aren’t able to do so, it may be time to consider other options.
While you should always trust your instincts, it’s never a good idea to just hire the first attorney that comes to mind. Take your time and interview multiple lawyers before making a decision. This will save you money and stress in the long run.
If you have family and friends that live locally, ask them if they can recommend a good divorce attorney. However, keep in mind that everyone’s situation is different so what works for them may not work for you. Additionally, if they’re recommending an attorney that they’ve worked with before, you might not have the same connection to that attorney and it might not be a good fit for your situation. Do your research and choose a family law specialist who will put your needs first. You can find top notch divorce attorneys in Knoxville, TN. They offer affordable rates for complicated legal cases and are experienced in all types of divorces including uncontested and contested divorces. The right attorney can help you move on with your life as quickly as possible.