Going through a divorce can be a challenging and emotional journey, and finding the right lawyer to guide you through this process is essential. However, with so many lawyers out there, the process of picking the right one can feel overwhelming. To simplify this process, here are some pointers for finding a divorce lawyer who fits your needs:
Get Referrals from Trusted Sources
Each divorce is different, so a lawyer who was a good fit for someone else might not be right for you. Even so, reliable recommendations are still an excellent starting point. Start by asking people you trust for lawyer recommendations. This could include friends, family members, or colleagues who have gone through a divorce. They can share their experiences and tell you about the lawyers they used. Professionals like therapists or financial advisors can also suggest suitable lawyers. They often work closely with divorce lawyers and know who has a good reputation.
Research Potential Attorneys Online
After getting some names, look each of them up online. Check their websites to review their focus areas and the types of cases they have handled. Look for client reviews and testimonials on their websites and third-party review sites. These reviews can give insights into how the lawyer works and how satisfied their previous clients are.
You should expect to see some negative reviews, especially of divorce lawyers. Parties to family cases are often very emotional and have very strong views of the lawyers and judges involved in the case. Often times negative reviews could be from the adverse party. When you meet with the attorney, ask her about the reviews.
Also pay attention to whether or not the attorney responds to reviews. Even a simple “thanks” after a review shows that the attorney cares about her public appearance and takes pride in receiving compliments from her clients.
Review Each Attorney’s Experience
Once you have narrowed down your list of potential lawyers, check their experience and accreditations. In New Jersey, attorneys can be board certified matrimonial lawyers. If your case is complex either financially or with a custody issue, you may want someone with advanced training and certifications.
You can also review the information that the attorney provides about the case types they handle. If you see a lawyer that handles everything from real estate, to criminal defense, to divorce, this is a generalist attorney who may lack the specialized knowledge and experience you need. If you case is not complex, it may not matter. If you have a house, kids, a business, high income, or any other unusual issue, you need someone who focuses on family law.
Don’t hesitate to ask them about their experience during your meetings. A good lawyer will be happy to discuss their past cases, without giving too many case specific details. Just remember that you don’t want your lawyer talking publicly about your case and former clients of the lawyer will feel the same way. Lawyers are trained to speak in hypotheticals and will be happy to provide you various “what if” examples. This will help you understand if they have the skills and knowledge to handle your case.
Schedule Consultations with Prospective Lawyers
Next, set up meetings with the lawyers you’re considering. Use this time to discuss your case and ask questions. Bring any documents that they request or send them in advance of the consultation. Pay attention to how the lawyer responds to your inquiries and concerns. Are they clear and straightforward? Do they seem to understand your situation? This meeting will help you determine how they work and if they’re a good fit for you.
Just remember that a first meeting is really just an opportunity to determine whether this is someone that you want to work with or not. Do you like this lawyer? Do you feel that you can talk to her? If not, move along. The best lawyer in the world may be the worst lawyer for your case if you don’t have a good foundation.
Trust Your Instincts
Finally, trust your instincts. After meeting with the lawyers, consider who you felt most comfortable with. The right lawyer for you is someone you feel you can trust and communicate with easily. They should make you feel heard and understood. Remember, you’ll be working closely with this person and discussing highly personal matters, so it’s important that you feel comfortable and confident in their abilities. Trusting your gut feeling is important in making your final decision.
Contact a Divorce Attorney in New Jersey Now
Looking for a reliable lawyer to help with your divorce? Reach out to Marisa Baker and the team with Baker Legal Group LLC. We’re ready to sit down with you, listen to your situation, and offer the legal guidance you need. Make the first move toward a new beginning now. Contact us at (908) 818-1344 to set up your initial consultation and discover how we can assist you.