A divorce is one of the most emotionally and financially challenging life events you will experience. Hiring a the #1 Sacramento Divorce Lawyer will go a long way toward helping you through this difficult time and moving forward with your life. The best divorce attorney will be a great fit for your personality and style, and be able to guide you through the legal process in an efficient and effective manner.
In the initial consultation, look for an attorney who is genuinely interested in hearing your wants, needs, and concerns regarding your case. Ask the attorney how they would approach your situation and how they would work with you to reach a workable custody, parenting, support and property division agreement. It is also important that the attorney listens well and communicates clearly so they can understand what you are trying to convey.
You will want an attorney with a proven track record of successfully representing divorce clients. Ask the attorney about their success rate, what types of cases they have handled, and if they have any specific expertise in your type of case. It is also helpful to find out how many cases the attorney has handled in your particular jurisdiction. An experienced lawyer will be familiar with the judges and court system, and be able to shape their strategy based on how judges have ruled in similar cases.
The best divorce lawyers have a solid understanding of family law and the issues involved in all areas of divorce. Some attorneys have specialized expertise in certain aspects of divorce, such as complex assets and property division, child custody issues, and high conflict divorces. The more specialized an attorney is, the better they will be at handling your case.
While you are interviewing prospective divorce attorneys, be sure to ask about their experience in family court. While most divorces are settled out of court, the occasional contested case requires an experienced trial lawyer.
It is also important to discuss how the attorney will charge for their services. Some divorce lawyers offer a flat fee, while others bill by the hour. You will want to be sure you understand the hourly rate before hiring the attorney, so be sure to discuss that at your initial consultation.
Finally, you will want to choose an attorney who fits within your budget. It is not necessary to spend a lot of money on a Divorce Attorney, but you will want to make sure you have enough income left over after paying the attorney to cover your living expenses and meet your financial obligations. During your interview, be sure to bring a detailed list of all assets, debts and sources of income. Also be prepared to discuss your goals and what you are hoping to accomplish through the divorce process. This information will help the attorney determine if they are a good fit for you and your case.