Differences in Divorce Attorneys

The simple answer to the question, “Can any attorney handle a divorce?” is a yes; however, the answer begs the question, “Would you want just any attorney handling your divorce?” It’s common place for people to hire the first attorney they may have consulted with. Don’t be lured into this pitfall. Look at retaining an attorney as you would making any other purchase. Shop around. However, target your shopping. Many attorneys say they can handle a divorce, and they probably can, but a divorce is a focused practice area and you want an attorney who is familiar with and routinely practices in the domestic arena. 

Take some time and consider several attorneys before you make your decision. Get recommendations from friends or other attorneys, then go meet with them. Be prepared to pay a consultation fee and be prepared to pay a retainer to the attorney you ultimately hire. Be ready for these fees and understand that the fees can be substantial; however, don’t go about this process looking for discounts or bargain representation. You may save money in the short term, but in the long run, such skimping on costs will end up costing you many times over. If you retain an attorney and decide things are not working out, it can be time consuming, costly and a possible delay in your case to move on to another attorney. Remember, you are purchasing the attorney’s experience and expertise, but you want to be comfortable with your attorney and trust them. 

Another important factor in selecting an attorney is to decide on one that will be a good fit with your personality and the fashion that you want to pursue your case. Ask yourself how you want your divorce to proceed. Do you want it over quickly and fairly? Do you want to wait a while, letting things play out and perhaps resolve themselves? Do you want to attempt to work out most of the issues directly with your spouse? Or do you want an all out war?