The divorce process can be long, difficult, and confusing. It might seem like there’s an endless supply of divorce attorneys out there waiting to take on your case. But how do you know which attorney is best for you? Do you know how to evaluate potential divorce attorneys and seek out the right qualities in the lawyer who’ll handle your case
The following is a list of points to consider when interviewing prospective divorce attorneys for your case. Every lawyer has his or her own unique strengths in and out of the courtroom. Choosing the right attorney for your case can be the difference between reaching your goals for your divorce settlement and coming away from the process with far less than you’d hoped for.
The Attorney’s Professional History and Credentials
When you’re interviewing attorneys to potentially represent your case, ask about their professional histories. Research your prospective attorney and find out if he or she has a history of misconduct or unethical behavior. Don’t be afraid to ask about his or her case record, either. How does your prospective attorney talk about any difficulties in his or her past? Does he or she try to brush them off, or offer reasons why he or she was unsuccessful in those cases and plans for ways to improve on them?
Learn all you can about every potential attorney’s experience with family law and divorce. Take the time to discuss the specifics of your case and how the rules written out in Title 20 of the South Carolina Code of Laws can affect it.
Is He or She a Professional?
Your case deserves the utmost dedication and attention to detail from your attorney. If you feel like you’re just a number to him or her, chances are you’re not getting the best customer service. An attorney is providing a service and he or she should be professional and treat your case as a top priority.
Does your prospective attorney return your phone calls and emails in a timely manner? Is he or she open with you about the process? It’s your divorce; you need to be an active part of it.
Attorney’s Fees and Divorce Costs
Don’t be afraid to ask about his or her rate per hour. When you first meet with a prospective divorce attorney, ask him or her how much he or she charges per hour. It is also a good idea to ask for an approximate estimate of your divorce’s total cost. Your attorney can’t know exactly what the divorce will cost or what unexpected issues will arise, but he or she should be able to look at your case and, based on past experiences, make a good guess about its total cost.
South Carolina Divorce Attorneys Can Help
If you’re beginning the divorce process, call the McGrath Law Firm at 843-606-2755 to discuss your case with one of our team’s family attorneys. We’re here to advocate for you and help you seek your ideal divorce settlement.