what kind of questions should you ask a divorce attorney

1. Do you specialize in divorces, or are divorces just a part of your practice? How long have you been practicing family law? ...
2. What is your strategy for my case? How long will it take to resolve my case?
3. How long do you take to return phone calls? How do I get a hold of you if there is an emergency? ...
4. Will anyone else in your office be working on my case? What experience do they have? Can I meet them?
5. How will you charge me? What is your hourly rate? Do you charge for the time I spend with other lawyers, with paralegals, and/or with secretaries? ...
6. What costs (other than your own) do you expect will be involved (for example, for private investigators, forensic accountants, physicians, and/or psychologists), and how will you charge me for ...
What's your estimate of the total cost of this divorce? ...
Do you allow me to negotiate directly with my spouse? How can I keep the cost of my divorce down? ...
Based on what you know about my case, how would you predict a judge would rule on it?
What can you do to help me understand the tax effect of the decisions I will have to make?

Full Answer

What you should know before contacting a divorce attorney?

If this is something you want to do, you should ask the attorney whether you have the proper basis to make such a request of the court. The attorney should then ask questions to determine if you have the factual and legal basis to do so on an emergency basis or a nonemergency basis.

What qualities make a good divorce attorney?

Mar 01, 2022 · Questions to Ask Your Divorce Attorney. You’re moving toward a divorce, which means that you naturally have questions and concerns about what lies ahead. While your divorce is unique to your marriage and the circumstances involved, the answers to the following questions can help you better prepare for what’s to come.

How to evaluate a good divorce attorney?

Feb 26, 2022 · Questions to Ask A Florida Divorce Attorney. What is the best strategy for my case? Every divorce attorney has a different strategy, and depending on the circumstances of your case, your divorce attorney may have to do something other than the norm.Asking about the strategy provides you with insight as to what you can expect during your divorce – and …

Is a divorce attorney really the answer?

However, if you're facing a contested divorce case that involves substantial assets, complicated financial questions, or a complex custody dispute, you should look for an experienced attorney that specializes in family law and has experience with the particular issues involved in your case.

What questions should I ask my first divorce lawyer?

Questions to ask a divorce attorney on the first visit about communicationHow often will we communicate about my case? ... How will we communicate with each other? ... What communication should I have with my spouse about the issues you and I discuss? ... How can I keep communication between my spouse and me amicable?More items...

What can be used against you in a divorce?

Anything you put in writing can be used against you and is fair game for the opposing party. However, if your ex plans to use texts or emails not directed toward them, he or she must be able to show that they had the authority to access the information.Jan 22, 2021

What questions should I ask my lawyer?

Questions to Ask Your Lawyer During a Consultation1) What kind of experience do you have with similar cases?2) What would be your strategy for my case?3) Are there any alternatives to going to court?4) What are my possible outcomes?5) Who will actually handle my case?6) What is my role in my case?More items...•Jan 29, 2017

Do I need a divorce lawyer if we agree on everything?

You should have a lawyer – even if you agree on everything. You want to make sure that your divorce is done properly and completely so you don't have any surprises or unexpected issues come up at a later date if something was forgotten or left undone.Jun 30, 2020

How do I protect myself financially in a divorce?

How to Protect Yourself During DivorceIf you have children, consider staying in the family home. ... Don't allow your spouse to take the children and leave. ... Get an attorney. ... Safeguard personal papers and make copies of important records. ... Cancel all jointly-owned credit cards. ... Make a record of all marital property.More items...

Can I date while going through a divorce?

Yes. If you're ready to, you are free to date other people while separated. Your separation agreement is critical though because if the timing of the relationship comes into question during your divorce your relationship may be considered as an affair or adultery.Aug 5, 2021

How do I prepare for an attorney interview?

If you are interviewing virtually, all of these tips apply.Do your research. Lawyers are known for being good researchers. ... Be presentable and dress your best. ... Come prepared to ask questions. ... Be personable and show enthusiasm. ... Be genuine. ... Promptly send a thank-you note.Oct 28, 2020

How do you prepare for an attorney meeting?

Tips For Meeting With Your Lawyer For the First TimeDress To Impress. ... Be Ready To Give Your Attorney Important Information About Yourself. ... Gather Your Evidence And Have It Ready For Your First Meeting. ... Get Your Facts Straight. ... Plan Something You Can Look Forward To For After Your Meeting.

What do you say when talking to a lawyer?

Tips for Talking to an AttorneyAlways be as honest and candid as possible about the facts of your case. ... Ask questions if you don't understand something that your attorney mentions or explains to you.Approach an attorney about your case as soon as you think you may need one.More items...•Aug 4, 2015

How much does a divorce cost if both parties agree?

If both parties agree on all major issues, known as an uncontested divorce, you can keep the costs relatively low. If you do your own divorce papers and your divorce is amicable, costs could be under $500. Of course, there are filing fees in all states, which increase the cost.

How do I start the divorce process?

To start the divorce you will need to the following: File a document, called a Petition, to the Court to initiate the divorce process. Only one spouse can file for a divorce (the Petitioner). The other party is known as the Respondent. ... Apply for a Decree Nisi. Apply for a Decree Absolute.

Is divorce free after 5 years separation?

If you have been separated for 5 years you are entitled to apply for divorce, even if your spouse does not consent. Your spouse can only oppose the divorce if they can argue that ending the marriage would result in serious financial or other hardship.