What Does a Good Family Lawyer Look Like?
If you are expecting a divorce or separation or are in the middle of one, hiring a family law attorney can help ease the process and ensure that nothing falls through the cracks, and walk you through the judicial maze. Divorce attorneys serve as advocates for their clients and lead them through the divorce process as seasoned professionals. But when you are looking for a family law attorney, what characteristics should you look for? Consider these elements when deciding which family lawyer or family law firm is right for you.
Experience
Years of experience breeds skill. Experienced family law attorneys know the ins and outs of the state court system, have seen a variety of cases, and have handled a myriad of different situations. While any family law attorney can recite the basic principles of family law, an experienced family law attorney in the courtroom, at the negotiating table, and on your side can make a substantial difference in the outcome of the divorce and in the content of the final divorce or separation agreement. During times of stress or uncertainty such as during divorce, you will want an experienced firm at the helm.
Direction
If you are getting a divorce, you are likely doing so for the first time. You may find the legal obligations, filings and motions, and court requirements daunting or confusing. And while you want to have a say in how your case proceeds, a family law attorney who can give you a strong basis of information and guidance as you make your decisions is a reliable asset. Look for professionals who are direct, involved, reliable, and prioritize a supportive relationship between them and their clients. When you do not know what to do, you will want someone with a strategy and straight advice to assist you.
Breadth
A person seeking a divorce may have the best divorce attorney in the world, but if the attorney has no experience working through child support or custody agreements, or who has never seen a high-net-worth divorce, or has never handled relocation issues, the divorcee may be out of luck if his or her divorce includes any of those elements. Look for a law firm working in a variety of family law areas so that if new or unexpected issues arise, there will be no need to look for additional assistance.
Specialization
Every divorce is different. Different factors are at play in divorces in which one spouse owns a business, has an advanced degree, or has a high net worth. Divorces of same-sex couples, couples in which paternity of children is uncertain or disputed, and of couples in which there have been incidences of domestic violence all incorporate additional special considerations. A family law firm that is right for you will be able to handle whatever your special needs may be.
If you are looking for a family law practice or a family or divorce attorney, the qualified lawyers at Schwartz | White may be able to help. Our experienced Boca Raton divorce and family law attorneys have over fifty years of combined experience, take pride in providing reliable support and guidance to clients, and have navigated cases involving everything from alimony to asset division, and from restraining orders to relocation. Call 561-391-9943 today for a consultation.
