How to Choose the Right Attorney for You; Without the Empty Promises

"The right divorce lawyer can ease the process. The wrong one can complicate it." – Esther M. Schonfeld

PART I: Understand Your Legal Rights and Obligations

Know What You're Entitled To Before You Begin.

Divorce is a deeply personal decision, but it is also a complex legal process that requires a clear understanding of the laws that apply to your unique situation. Before moving forward, it's essential to clarify what you’re entitled to under the law. In order to understand that, you must find a lawyer in your area familiar not only with the statutory law, but the caselaw and trends in your area, who you feel comfortable opening up to. A lawyer can’t guess what the issues are in your case. Every state has its own set of divorce laws that govern matters like property division, child custody, and support. A skilled attorney must fully understand the details of your case in order to provide tailored advice and guidance. Taking the time to consult with a lawyer helps you become informed about your rights and obligations, and helps to prepare you for what to expect throughout the process. It also cannot hurt to get multiple opinions. In our firm, we have 4 attorneys currently and this helps create a dynamic consultation with multiple viewpoints and sometimes different opinions to consider and strategies to implement.

PART II: Beyond the Consultation, Retaining Counsel Who Grows With Your Case

Why One Meeting Isn't Enough.

Once you’ve decided to move forward with a divorce, one of the most crucial steps is selecting the right attorney for you. Since you can't fully understand your legal rights, obligations, and options, even after a consultation or 2, it's vital to choose someone who is not only knowledgeable but also honest and transparent about your case. While an initial consultation can provide a starting point, divorce is rarely a static process, circumstances shift, new facts emerge, and emotional and legal needs evolve. That’s why it’s essential to work with a lawyer you trust, one who can adapt their strategy over time and guide you through the changing landscape with clarity and flexibility.

Look for an attorney who listens to your concerns, communicates effectively, and keeps you informed at every stage. Experience in Matrimonial/Family law is essential, especially in cases involving Custody, Equitable Distribution, Support, and other complex financial issues. Equally important is finding a lawyer who will help you stay focused on your long-term goals, rather than getting caught up in unnecessary conflict, which could cause delay and increased legal fees. You want to make sure they’re prioritizing your well-being and listening to your wants and needs, over anything else. With the right legal support, you’ll be better prepared to navigate both the emotional and legal challenges of divorce with support and confidence.

Part III: Qualities to Look for in the Right Divorce Attorney

Ask the Right Questions, Get the Right Fit.

Choosing a divorce lawyer who understands your goals and can effectively guide you through the process is crucial. Look for an attorney who listens to your concerns, has experience in the relevant areas of law, and helps you stay focused on your priorities.

When selecting a divorce lawyer, it’s essential to ask the right questions to ensure they’re the best fit for your case. You want a lawyer who primarily practices matrimonial/family law and has significant experience in matrimonial matters. It’s also important to confirm that they have trial experience in your county, as local experience and understanding the trends of the local Judges can be a significant advantage. This can be an advantage in terms of helping to resolve the case and if the case ends up at trial being decided by a Judge. We generally recommend choosing a law firm with multiple attorneys on staff, ensuring there’s always someone available to support you when needed.

Part IV: Trust, Transparency, and Real Advocacy

Most importantly, choose a lawyer who is honest and transparent; one who seems to be looking out for your (and any children’s) best interests and who employs and utilizes cost benefit analysis strategies. Look for clear communication, reasonable fees, and an approach that aligns with your goals, one that avoids stoking unnecessary costly conflict. During your initial consultation, trust your instincts: if the lawyer listens carefully, sets realistic expectations, and prioritizes your needs over a quick resolution, you're on the right track. Remember, you are not simply looking for a cheerleader, you are looking for honesty and avid professional advocacy.

Note. This article is for informational purposes only, and is not intended to constitute legal advice and does not create any attorney-client relationship or privilege.