Need a Family Law Attorney but Don't Know Where to Begin?
Bad legal representation can cost you thousands of dollars, months of misery, and possibly your family's future for all time. However, there are nearly 57,000 family law attorneys in the US all vying for your attention.
The real question is how do you choose?
The answers are much more straightforward than you might think. Let's talk about the key things you need to be aware of when making the big decision.
Start With Specialized Experience
Before we dive into some of the questions you need to be asking, let's address one thing that may come as a surprise…
Not all lawyers are created equal. Hiring someone without the right experience is the equivalent of letting your foot doctor operate on your brain.
You should be seeking out a family law specialist who focuses on divorce or custody matters, not someone who just happens to handle family law among several other practice areas.
Don't you know this by now?
It's similar to hiring a non-practicing lawyer (only to be left wondering why they want to take on your case).
Specialists like knowledgeable family law attorneys understand what your experience will be like. They also know what it takes to get the best possible outcomes.
Yearly, state courts will see a staggering 3.8 million family law cases.
And while each one of them is different and all families are unique, they all deserve a lawyer who understands their unique situation.
Check Their Track Record
People often emphasize fancy office spaces instead of the actual questions they should be asking. Such as how many cases like mine have they handled, what the results were, and if they have complex cases experience.
If this case involves high net worth or international custody issues, make sure they have significant experience in such complex matters.
Don't know why it matters?
Look at it this way, having 20 years of family law attorney experience as a general attorney is no better than zero. Pick your battles carefully.
When you start to lay the groundwork, you will be ahead of the people who play this cute game. Remember, 55% of people consider the pricing of the attorney before making contact with them, but this should be the last thing that matters.
Red Flags to Avoid When Interviewing Lawyers
Choosing the right family law attorney is important. I am going to show you some of the things to watch out for. They will stop you from making the right choice.
The "Yes Man" Attorney
This is one of the biggies. When the lawyer who agrees with everything you say, that's your green light.
An attorney that tells you what you want to hear might not be acting in your best interest. Instead, you need the opposite of the "yes man."
What I mean by this is a good family law attorney will push back. They will provide you with honest advice whether you like it or not.
They will explain potential problems with your case and set appropriate expectations. So if you are seeing someone who is telling you exactly what you want to hear. Run.
Poor Communication
Did you know that 55% of people consider the pricing of the attorney before making contact with them, but communication should be just as important?
Family law cases can take years. If they are slow to respond during the initial part, how responsive will they be later? If you can't reach them, there are better options.
Ask about their response time and who your main point of contact will be. Ask how often they will provide updates on your case.
Unrealistic Fee Structures
Family law attorney costs vary from $200 to $500 hourly, and most attorneys will charge between $3,000 and $5,000 as retainer fees.
However, the most expensive attorney is not always the best in what they offer. The cheapest attorney options can be expensive in the end.
How Much You Should Expect to Pay
Family law attorney costs will be the discussion on my mind. Here is the honest truth about the attorney costs.
It is going to be very expensive. But knowing the fees and how they are broken down will help you budget and avoid those nasty surprises.
Typical Cost Breakdown
The most common billing practice for family law attorneys is on an hourly basis.
The average attorney fees cost is $4100 for an uncontested divorce. This average cost can shoot up to $10,400 for cases settled out of court and $17,700 when they go to trial.
There are a few things that influence the overall fees;
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Case complexity: The more contested, the higher the cost (simple divorces cost less).
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Geographic location: Attorneys in urban areas will cost more than rural attorneys.
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Attorney experience: Senior partners have a higher rate than junior associates.
Understanding Retainer Fees
When you hear the term retainer, think down payment. You pay the retainer upfront (usually $3,000-$5,000), and the attorney draws from this as they work on your case.
Ask to receive monthly invoices that are detailed on how the retainer is being used. Remember that the attorneys draw on the retainer. This process will keep them honest and helps you track the expenses.
Questions That Reveal Attorney Quality
This consultation is your time to assess the attorneys. Here are the questions that will let you know the professionals from the amateurs…
Experience Questions
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"How long have you been practicing family law exclusively?"
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"How many cases similar to mine have you handled?"
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"What percentage of your cases settle versus go to trial?"
Process and Cost Questions
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"What's your strategy for cases like mine?"
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"What's your hourly rate and typical retainer?"
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"What additional costs should I expect?"
Pay attention to how they answer your questions. A quality family law attorney will be specific, honest, and transparent.
Try to explain their thought process and won't shy away from giving details.
The Chemistry Test
Let's get real; this might sound a bit touchy-feely but hear me out. It matters a lot.
You're going to be sharing very personal information with this person. You need to feel comfortable talking about intimate details of your family life.
Do I trust this person? Do they listen to my concerns? Do I feel confident in their abilities? It is these little details. Nearly 48% of people consider reviews and rating when it comes to choosing lawyers but during the time you spend with the lawyer, you know them.
Making Your Final Decision
You've done your homework, interviewed a few attorneys, and checked references. Now what?
Don't be in a hurry.
Take the time to weigh your options. Look at their experience, communication style, and fee structure. Above all, trust your instincts.
The cheapest option is not always the best value, and the most expensive attorney is not always the most qualified.
Look for these qualities:
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Specializes in family law
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Experience in cases like yours
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Communicates well and in a timely manner
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Transparent and fair pricing
The Bottom Line
Finding the right family law attorney is one of the most important decisions you will make during this difficult time in your life.
What matters most is…
Choosing an experienced family law attorney who has the experience of handling similar cases.
Someone who communicates effectively and makes you feel confident in the process. Don't let price be your only factor, but make sure you understand the fee structure up front.
Don't be afraid to ask tough questions during the consultation and go with your gut on whether this is the right person to handle your case.
Your family's future is on the line, so take the time to do this right… You'll thank me later.
