Tips For Retaining a Lawyer
Find an Experienced Family Law Attorney
It is best to hire an attorney who has devoted all or at least most of their practice to the practice of family and matrimonial law. In the same way that we wouldn’t hire a matrimonial attorney to handle a medical malpractice lawsuit, you cannot protect yourself without hiring an attorney with real experience to handle your divorce or other family law related matter.
Hire an Attorney who is Aligned with Your Mindset and Goals
Do you want a win at all costs, aggressive attorney (often referred to as a “shark”) hoping your spouse will capitulate to your demands or, are you put off by the scorched earth tactics often associated with high cost litigation and, prefer to maintain peace for your children or family. If for example you are looking for a settlement, make sure the attorney you choose has a reputation for being able to settle cases. In either case, remember there is always a balance.
Interviewing Attorneys
While you do not need to interview multiple attorneys before hiring one, make sure the attorney you do hire made you feel comfortable and, more confident than you were before the consultation with them. You also want to be sure that they understood your concerns and clearly answered your questions.
Avoid Selecting an Attorney Purely Based On Cost Unless You Have No Choice
I have seen clients all too many times select an attorney because that attorney was asking for a smaller up-front retainer or, was modestly less expensive than another, only to wind up having to retain more experienced counsel and start over at far greater expense to them down the road. A greater up-front retainer isn’t usually indicative of a greater ultimate cost to you. An attorney’s rates are also typically reflective of their experience, serving to confirm the adage, “you get what you pay for.”
Avoid Staying With an Attorney With Whom You are Unhappy or Lack Confidence
If it turns out that the attorney you hired isn’t right for you and you do not believe they can handle your matter, it is ill-advised to stay with them. Trust your instincts, and remember this isn’t a marriage and you did not take a vow to stay with your attorney, and are only doing harm to yourself by continuing to stay with them.
Feel free to contact us if you would like to see how The Isaacs Firm can help you.
