How to Choose a Florida Divorce Attorney

Choosing the right attorney to handle their divorce may be vital to the outcome of people’s divorce cases.

Not all marriages in Southwest Florida, and elsewhere, work out. In fact, the American Psychological Association reports that between 40 and 50 percent of all marriages end in divorce. Due to the emotions and legalities that are often involved with the end of a marriage, couples who are considering divorce often choose to hire a divorce attorney. These legal representatives help people to get through what may be one of the most difficult experiences of their lives, which is why it is important that they choose the right lawyer for their situation.

Ask for recommendations

When looking for a divorce lawyer, it is generally not advisable to just pick a name off of a list. Rather, the American Bar Association suggests that people ask for referrals from people who they trust. This may include friends or family members, as well as other professionals who they know or have worked with. While it may be difficult to discuss such personal matters, others who have gone through similar experiences may help people to find an attorney who will handle their case as they wish.

Research potential candidates

Before making a selection, it is recommended that people research their potential candidates. They should check their backgrounds, records and reviews. Additionally, people may consider asking for references. This may help them to better understand the qualifications of those attorneys who they are considering hiring.

Conduct interviews

Once they have narrowed down the list, the Huffington Post suggests that people interview the attorneys who they are considering hiring to represent them in their divorce cases. During such interviews, people may ask questions in order to determine the likeability and temperament of the lawyers. This may help them to decide if they are compatible.

A divorce lawyer will help people to negotiate child custody and the division of marital property, among other issues. Therefore, it is important for them to make sure that the attorney who they hire will not act too aggressively if they are looking to achieve an amicable resolution to their case or act too passively when the other side is unwilling to budge.

Watch out for red flags

During the interview process, some attorneys may make bold promises. However, CNBC advises people to be guarded when it comes to these lawyers. This is particularly true if other legal representatives are not telling them the same things, or if they are giving them different advice.

Additionally, it is important to pay attention to how the attorneys who they are considering treat their employees and other staff members. This may shed light on their dispositions, which may help people to determine if they are the right legal representative to handle their divorce cases.

Make a choice of the future

In addition to the emotions that are often at play when Florida marriages come to an end, there are a number of legalities that must be addressed. Therefore, those who are considering getting divorced may benefit from hiring an attorney to help guide them through the process. A lawyer may explain their rights and options, as well as look out for their interests.