If you are undergoing a divorce procedure, you need to hire a lawyer. Whether you have already started proceedings or you are unsure of how to get started, you are not alone. No matter where you are in the process, help is available like Tumolaw the best divorce lawyers in Fort Worth The first step should be to find a reputable family lawyer. When you set up your consultation, make a list of the seven divorce questions to ask. This way you will have a better grasp of the divorce process. Here are some questions to ask your divorce lawyer so that you understand the process properly.
- What Is Your Fee Structure?
The first question to ask a lawyer is how he will bill you? Different firms like Chicago divorce lawyer have different fee structures so it is important to understand exactly what you will or will not be charged for. Here is a shortlist to help you get started-
Is the initial consultation free? If not, how much will it cost?
Will you be billed by hour, or will there be a fixed fee?
Will you be charged for time spent answering questions through phone calls or emails?
Will there be a retainer fee? If so, how does it work?
Divorce proceedings take months or even years. You should be sure that you have understood exactly what you are signing up for and if you could afford it.
- What Are The Local Divorce Laws?
Procedures for divorce in each province or territory may vary greatly. When asking divorce questions it is important to understand the variations in the specific jurisdiction. These may have a tremendous impact on factors like custody arrangements for the child and spousal support. Do you and your spouse agree to get divorced? If so, you may file an uncontested divorce. These types of divorces are easiest to navigate.
What if one of you does not agree to the divorce terms? What if your spouse decides to prolong the process over custody battle or some other disagreement? In such a case you are looking at a contested divorce that requires more time and money to settle. Your lawyer guides you in the process and explains all local divorce laws to you.
- How Long Have You Practiced Divorce Law?
No rule says that a new lawyer can’t be a good one. Recent Law school graduates bring a lot of energy and in-depth knowledge of new laws and technology. In most cases, still there is no substitute for experience. When you meet your lawyer, find out how long they have been practicing family and divorce law. Do they know the opposing lawyers and the local judges? Are they familiar with local divorce laws including new legislation? How much trial experience do they have? Any lawyer you are considering to hire should have experience in negotiating separation agreements, also court orders and pleadings.
- How Many Similar Cases Have You Dealt With?
There is no substitute for experience, and it applies strongly to trial experience. It’s one thing for a lawyer – to have handled divorce cases. And it is another to have actually taken cases to court and won. Mostly divorce cases settle out of court, so trials are not necessary. But if there is a contested divorce and you and your spouse cannot agree on anything so you need to be prepared for the possibility of going to hold. Search for a lawyer who has a reasonable balance of trial experience but is still an advocate for settlements and negotiations.
The truth is that nothing about divorce process is easy. Uncontested divorces create emotional mental and financial strain. With the right divorce lawyer on your side, you can successfully navigate the legal system.
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