One of the most important decisions you will make when going through a divorce is choosing who you will retain to be your divorce attorney. Having the right attorney, one who is not only skilled at his or her craft but also one who you feel comfortable and confident with, is crucial to having a “successful” divorce.
When meeting with a divorce attorney for the first time, there are several important things that you should discuss. These areas include:
Attorney Services and Legal Fees
Knowing what the attorney charges, such as their hourly rate, how much if any of a retainer is required, as well as other legal fees that may be involved, are topics that every attorney should be forthcoming with. No one needs any surprise expenses, especially while going through such a life-changing – and often financial status-changing – event. Although an attorney cannot predict the exact amount your divorce will cost, they should be able to explain the standard charges, as well as situations that could come up which could cause those costs to increase.
Your Spouse's Attorney
It is not uncommon for the attorneys of divorcing spouses to know each other professionally and to have worked on opposing sides of the courtroom in other cases. Although you may think it is better if there is strong dislike between the attorneys, it can actually be more beneficial if there is mutual respect between your attorney and your spouse's attorney. This means the two will actually work better together in moving the case along, rather than dragging it out longer because of the animosity between the two lawyers.
Areas of Law Practiced
Divorce and family law are complicated and the statutes concerning these areas are frequently changing. It is critical that your attorney remains up-to-date on what those laws are. Having an attorney that focuses on one area of law, rather than a lawyer who practices within several, could help ensure that your best interests are protected in the divorce process.
The Firm's Staff
Often, it is not just the attorney you will be dealing with, but you will also have interactions with other members of the firm's staff – such as your attorney's legal assistant or paralegal, and possible other attorneys at the firm. Meeting those people will help you decide if this attorney and the firm are a good fit for you and your divorce.
DuPage County Divorce Attorney
If you are considering a divorce, then contacting an experienced DuPage County divorce attorney is the first step. Call Roscich & Martel Law Firm, LLC at (630) 793-6337 for a confidential consultation.
Source:
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/randall-m-kessler/top-5-things-to-ask-your-_b_8240184.html