For many people, the decision to separate or divorce can be difficult. The decision carries a whole host of other issues and questions. Many people want to know where they will live, what will happen to their finances, who will have custody of their children. The first step to getting answers to those questions is finding, and hiring, an experienced divorce lawyer.
The prospect of meeting with and hiring a lawyer can be intimidating, and may itself deter or delay some people from proceeding with a divorce. However, there are many ways to alleviate some of the stress and worry from finding and hiring a successful attorney.
Preparing to Meet with an Attorney
When considering divorce, it’s understandable to have a lot of questions about the local courts, the law in your state, and what to expect in your case. In addition, you may have questions about the mechanics of working with an attorney. In order to get answers to all of your questions, it’s important to write them down before meeting with an attorney. It can be easy in an initial meeting to get off topic, and writing down your questions will make sure that you will leave the meeting knowing that you did not leave anything out.
In addition to writing down questions, it can be helpful to bring relevant documentation to your meeting. If you have questions about finances, bring financial documents with you that might help the attorney provide you with information and answers.
Initial Consultation
An initial consultation with an attorney or firm is an opportunity for you to interview them and decide whether or not to hire them. In this situation, remember that you are the consumer, and take the consultation to assess whether or not you want to work with the attorney.
The consultation is an opportunity for you to ask your questions, not only about the specifics of your case, but about working with the attorney in general. It’s important to ask questions about fee structure, billing, years of experience, and familiarity with similar cases. It’s also an opportunity to discuss your goals. An experienced lawyer will be able to talk with you about what your goals are, and will help you understand potential outcomes and what to expect from negotiations or a trial.
Considering Attorneys
Many people struggle, after a meeting with an attorney, to decide whether hiring someone will help them achieve their goals. Some may turn to friends who have been through divorce or have worked with an attorney, or to message boards for others who have gone through the process, in order to identify what they should be looking for. However, it’s important to remember that every case is different. Someone else may have been able to achieve a different outcome because their case included different specifics.
An experienced attorney will review your case, discuss your goals and possible outcomes, and guide you through the process.
Contact me for a Consultation Today
If you or your loved one has questions about a divorce in Illinois, contact me for a consultation today. I am prepared to assist you through this difficult time.
