Sometimes, the people we love the most are the ones who are capable of causing the most damage in our lives. Whether you’re going through a divorce or dealing with domestic violence, getting through this time will be difficult, to say the least.
However, despite the emotions you’re experiencing, it’s vital to make the best choices for your future. This includes thinking about your physical and mental health, safety, financial well-being, and your children’s future.
Hiring a family lawyer is the best thing you can do right now. You need expert legal counsel to make sure your situation has a fair and just outcome.
The only question is, how do you find the right family law lawyer? We can help. Keep reading for a quick guide on how to find the right legal professional for your situation.
Determine the Best Legal Process for Your Situation
First, you need to decide which type of legal process to pursue. Your choice will dictate the lawyer that is best for your situation. For example, you need to decide between litigation, mediation, or collaborative family law.
Mediation is an attempt to use a neutral third party to help resolve an issue, such as divorce. This is handled outside of the courts without a judge/jury. Yet, the contracts signed during mediation are still legally binding.
Litigation, on the other hand, is a lawsuit handled by a judge and jury. They decide who is right or wrong.
Collaborative family law is a more progressive solution that requires a family lawyer. However, collaborative family law is about working together to find solutions, instead of “fighting” and “winning.”
Get Recommendations
Based on your situation, reach out to people you know who have had similar experiences. Ask them what family lawyer or law firm they used. Depending on how open you are, you can approach friends, family members, co-workers, and anyone else you trust.
You might also consider using Facebook to ask for recommendations.
Did the person have a good experience working with the lawyer? Would they recommend their services to other people who need help with family law?
Look for a Family Lawyer with Experience and Expertise
Next, choose a family law lawyer who specializes in the right field. They should have experience handling cases like yours.
For example, divorces can differ on multiple levels. If it’s a simple divorce with no kids and few assets, you don’t need a big-budget lawyer.
However, if you share a business, have hundreds of thousands of dollars (or more) in shared assets, and have children, a more experienced lawyer might be the way to go.
Additionally, find a lawyer based on the type of family dispute. For example, are you looking for a family violence lawyer or a family divorce lawyer? Most family law lawyers are capable of handling both types of cases, but you might want someone who specializes in the matter at hand.
Look at Client Reviews and Testimonials
If you can’t find helpful recommendations from your close contacts, you may need to take your search online. Use Google or any other search engine to find family law groups in your area. Then, visit each of their websites to find client reviews and testimonials.
If you can’t find reviews on their websites, Google their law firm and “reviews” to find what you’re looking for. Find out what other people who have used their services have to say about their experience.
For example, did they get the results they were hoping for? Was the lawyer helpful, professional, and attentive? Would they recommend the family lawyer to other clients?
Get a Free Consultation
One of the best ways to find the best legal professional is by sitting down for a family lawyer free consultation. Reach out to the local family law firms and find out if they offer free case evaluations. This can help you on multiple levels.
First, getting a free consultation will give you more insight into your case. Even if you don’t hire a lawyer, you can learn more about what you can expect in the days to come. The lawyer can also educate you on what you should and shouldn’t do during the case to make sure you get the most desirable outcome.
Secondly, sitting down for a case evaluation will allow you to gain insight into the family lawyer’s professionalism, attitude, kindness, compassion, competency, and communication skills. When consulting with a lawyer, listen to your gut to determine if he or she is a good fit for you personally.
Do you feel listened to and respected? Does the lawyer seem genuinely invested in your case? Do you get a good feeling about working with them?
If you need a case evaluation, reach out to Khonsari Law Group for a St. Petersburg family law attorney. They can talk to you about your case and help you determine the right path.
Ask About Pricing and Legal Fees
Next, make sure you know what to expect about your legal fees. What does the family lawyer charge for their services? Are there any additional expenses?
While you should never skimp on important matters (like family law), you must also make responsible financial decisions for your future. Don’t base your search on the cheapest lawyer possible.
However, find an affordable family lawyer who works with you and your budget. This will likely mean figuring out a payment plan.
Ask About Case Load and Availability
Finally, before hiring a family and divorce lawyer, ask them how many other clients they currently have. While it’s not unusual for family lawyers to handle dozens of cases at one time, you need to make sure they will give you and your case adequate time and attention.
Ask them if they have enough room in their schedule to respond to you in a timely manner and make your case a priority. If they can’t get back to you within a day or two to answer questions or address concerns, you need to find a lawyer who can be more attentive.
Do You Need a Family Lawyer?
If you need help wading through family legal issues, you must find a family lawyer as soon as possible. They can help you make the right choices and guide you through the legal process. They will make sure you find a just and fair solution for your case.
Follow the tips listed above to find the right legal professional for your situation. And if you’re looking for more legal tips or lifestyle advice, check out some of our other articles while you’re here. Our blog was created to help people like you improve their lives on every level.
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