You’re thinking about getting a divorce and the prospect of dealing with what might be ahead can be overwhelming. Protect yourself by consulting with a divorce attorney immediately, so you know how to safeguard your interests. One of the most common regrets in divorce forums is not hiring an attorney from the onset to guide them through this trying time. By hiring a lawyer, you want to make sure you have someone committed to protecting your rights, and you receive objective advice from someone that knows the law and can separate themselves from the emotional side of your circumstances.
There are some questions you should ask your potential attorney to make sure you’re getting the quality representation you need. The effect of a divorce outcome will be with you for years so make sure you have the right counsel from the start. Here are 11 questions to ask your divorce attorney:
1. Do you practice primarily in Family Law? How long have you been practicing as an attorney in Las Vegas?
These are probably two of the most important questions you will ask. You want a lawyer that has years of experience in divorce and all related matters. This experience may include property division, child custody and visitation, child support, a division of retirement benefits and alimony. All divorce cases are complicated, so you want someone that will be able to handle all the aspects of your case simultaneously. The right credentials ensure you of an expedited process and knowledge base to offer you the best representation.
You also want someone that has extended knowledge of the Nevada court system, opposing lawyers and local rulings. Hiring a law firm with experienced lawyers that know Nevada law, will ensure you will obtain legal advice that will avoid costly mistakes.
2. How will you communicate with me on developments in my case?
Finding out how your attorney will contact you and how often will help to determine if he or she is right for you. A good attorney offers efficient communication and keeps you up-to-date on everything that happens in your case. You also should be included in all decisions.
3. Have you handled cases similar to mine?
Asking if your lawyer has handled cases like yours will let you know if he or she has the right experience for your situation. Without disclosing confidential information, your attorney should be able to tell you what has happened on rulings in cases that are similar in the past and outline the best-case and worst-case scenario for yours. A reputable attorney will give you an honest assessment and let you know if there are challenges ahead.
4. What is the best way for you to achieve my goals?
Once your attorney has most of the information regarding your divorce, he or she should be able to lay out a strategy to help you realize your optimal outcome. They should be able to let you know why he or she thinks the approach will work and how it will help you.
5. Can you give me the general process of going through a divorce?
If this your first divorce, the unknown can be intimidating. Have your potential attorney walk you step-by-step through the divorce process, so you will be better prepared for what to expect.
6. What is the estimated length of time you it would take to complete my divorce?
While no one can give you an exact amount of time that your divorce process will take, a seasoned attorney should be able to give you a time range to let you know what to anticipate. He should also give you examples of situations that might delay the process.
7. How will we split the marital assets?
Your lawyer can offer you previous case rulings of how marital assets are typically divided. You should also inquire about the division of retirement accounts so that you can get a clear picture of your future financial position. Knowing if you will be responsible for giving or receiving alimony will also be beneficial information.
8. Based on your experience, what do you anticipate regarding child custody orders (if applicable)?
Your attorney should make the welfare of your child or children a priority and be highly skilled in fighting for custody if that is the outcome you desire. He or she should be able to confidently present your case before the judge and give a clear plan of how staying with you would be in the child’s or children’s best interest.
9. What will my divorce will cost based on the information I’ve given you?
While your lawyer won’t probably be able to provide you an exact expense for your divorce, he or she should provide you with an estimated figure for your case based on previous cases similar to yours. There are always possible costs that might come up, so be sure to account for the possibility of those.
10. How will I be billed for your services?
Most lawyers require an up-front retainer and then will bill you once that becomes depleted. You will want to find out how often your lawyer will invoice you so that you can plan accordingly.
11. Is there any way to save on costs for my divorce?
Any reputable lawyer should be able to give you some options on how you can cut down on expenses for your divorce.
12. Why should I choose your law office over others?
The answer to this question might be the one to sway you to either retain or interview another law firm. Your divorce attorney in Henderson should be able to confidently let you know what advantage he or she has over the competing law firms. Asking to see testimonials and getting recommendations would further enforce you knowing you made the right choice.