Divorce is never easy. Even if you have an agreeable spouse, few assets to divide, and no custody battles to fight, the process of getting a divorce requires a lot of paperwork and patience. You want this process over as quickly as possible, but when you start Googling affordable divorce lawyers, the long list of divorce law firms to sort through makes the settlement seem decades away. Choosing a lawyer that is not right for you will only prolong the divorce process. When choosing an attorney, avoid these five common mistakes: Mistake 1: Hiring the Wrong Kind of Lawyer Divorce law is a unique and complicated field. Divorce lawyers have to be familiar with property laws, custody laws, criminal laws, and other legal specifications to navigate a variety of unique cases. Choosing a general lawyer or someone a friend recommended might not be the best way to handle your case. Also look into your lawyer’s history to ensure that they offer the kind of divorce services you need. For example, if you want an amicable, no-fuss divorce, look for a firm that offers simple settlements or even divorce mediation. If you know your divorce is going to be messy, look for a lawyer with experience winning tough cases. Mistake 2: Not Preparing Questions You Have For many, divorce is emotional and disorienting. Try to clear your thoughts and focus when digging through affordable divorce lawyer options. When you meet your lawyer for an “interview” to discuss your case, a great way to stay on track is to prepare a list of questions beforehand. Ask about pricing, fee guarantees, their prior experience, and anything else you want to know. Don’t get intimidated by legalese, and ask the lawyer for clarification when necessary. Mistake #3: Focusing on Cheap Fees Alone While you naturally want to find affordable divorce lawyers, resist the temptation to just choose the cheapest firm available. A low-cost divorce lawyer is a good option for a simple case; however, if your case is complex, paying the added price for quality and experience can help you split assets fairly and save you money in the long run. Some divorce cases don’t require a lawyer– after all, 29% of custody cases were decided without any third party involvement. However, if your divorce requires legal assistance, be sure to get the best you can afford. Use this guide to ask the right questions, pay the right price, and find the right lawyer for your unique case.
