Consumer Law

Divorce Lawyer Selection

By Sam Glover

Minnesota, like most states, has hundreds of divorce lawyers. Picking the best divorce lawyer for you can be intimidating and frustrating. You can increase your chances of finding a good match with a little preparation and a few good questions.

Figuring out who to call

Start by asking people you know and trust for a referral. If they were happy with their lawyer, you may be, too. If you cannot get a referral—and even if you do—check with your local bar association, too. Most bar associations keep lawyer referral list, and it is best to visit more than one lawyer before you decide to hire someone.

Know thyself

Do you need a lawyer to return your calls 24/7, or are you low maintenance? Will you and your spouse be able to agree on most or all things, or will this be a long, hard-fought divorce? Do you want an aggressive, hard-driving litigator, or a polite, collaborative advocate?

If you know your goals, you can ask smarter questions of the lawyers  you meet.

Know thy lawyer

Especially if you need extra attention, make sure you ask whether the lawyer charges extra for phone calls outside of regular working hours. If you think you can manage to have a relatively peaceful divorce, seek out a lawyer who concentrates on collaborative divorce. If you want an aggressive lawyer, ask him or her how many cases wind up in trial.

Additionally, do a little background research. What comes up with you Google the lawyer’s name? Look up the attorney’s disciplinary history, and ask the lawyer for references from former clients.

Make sure you know what the lawyer bills per hour, and ask how the lawyer will track his or her time. You may also ask for a flat fee, instead of an hourly fee model. Some lawyers will be willing to set a flat fee; others will not.

Don’ts

Do not just hire the cheapest lawyer just because he or she is the cheapest. You will not value their time, and they may not value your business. You should hire the right lawyer for you, not the cheapest lawyer in the Yellow Pages.

Most importantly, do not hide anything from your lawyer. Your lawyer will not be able to help you effectively if you do.

(photo: kevindooley)

Full post as published by Caveat Emptor on March 03, 2010 (boomark / email).