Hiring a good divorce lawyer in Phoenix Arizona is one of the most important decisions you will make as you work through a divorce. This is because the attorney you choose will be able to help you reach a workable timesharing and custody schedule, fair property division, and alimony arrangements. Your attorney will also be your advocate in court, defending your rights and interests while fighting to get you what you are entitled to under the law.
As you interview potential divorce attorneys, look for the following qualities:
Expertise
The more an attorney knows about the specific areas of family law that are most important to you in your case, such as child custody or complex asset division, the better he or she will be able to serve your interests. Find out how much of the attorney’s practice is dedicated to divorce and family law. You may also want to ask whether the attorney has served on bar association family-law committees or addressed local groups. This can provide valuable insight into how well the attorney is respected by fellow attorneys and the courts in your area.
Effort
It is critical to find an attorney who is willing to fight for you and will do whatever it takes to win your case. This includes negotiating with your spouse’s attorney to reach an out-of-court agreement or preparing for a long trial if necessary. Having an aggressive, tenacious attorney on your side can often make the difference between winning or losing a difficult divorce case. Click here to contact one.
Ability to communicate
A good divorce lawyer is able to effectively listen to your concerns and expectations about the outcome of your case, and can explain them to you in a way that makes sense. They should be able to respond quickly to any questions or concerns you have about the status of your case, and can provide realistic expectations for how your case will unfold. They should also be able to maintain composure during emotional court proceedings, or when dealing with opposing counsel or judges.
When you have interviewed potential candidates, it is important to compare their fees. Some divorce attorneys offer a flat rate for their services, while others charge by the hour. Be sure to discuss how much an attorney will cost before hiring them, and understand any hidden costs such as travel expenses or filing fees. You should also determine whether you are likely to be working directly with the attorney who interviewed you, or if someone else will be handling your case. This will have a significant impact on your experience and how smoothly your case will progress. Lastly, you should consider whether the personality and style of the attorney mesh with your own. It is not uncommon for you to communicate extremely intimate details about your personal life with your divorce attorney, so it’s important that you find an attorney with whom you feel comfortable. This is why it is so important to interview multiple attorneys before making your decision.