How to Choose a Divorce Attorney
Denver, Colorado
Before anything else, take a few moments to sit down and write a list of what you expect from your divorce attorney. Also write a list of questions to ask. This will get your mind clear so that when you're out there interviewing, you'll be able to stay on track and get all the information you need. Reading this page will also give you some ideas and reminders.
Choose a divorce attorney you can talk comfortably with
- Typically divorces are unhappy and emotional events so you'll want to do everything possible to keep yourself on an even keel throughout the proceedings. That means choosing a divorce attorney you can question, one you can call if something worrisome occurs and you need an answer or some reassurance.
- Pick a divorce attorney you feel is honest and trustworthy, who'll listen to you, give full answers to questions, and explain the relevant legal terms and concepts. The better you understand what's going on at each stage of things, the less afraid or worried you'll be.
- If you have children, be sure and pick an attorney who'll keep the children's best interests in mind. You want one who'll work to minimize the pain for them, and not allow them to be used as instruments of punishment between the two spouses. Read about child custody.
Where to start?
- Asking friends and acquaintances is a good place to start. People who have recently divorced may recommend their attorney (or warn you off). They may suggest good things to keep in mind, born of their recent experience.
On the other hand, they may have "poor me" stories too, so use your judgment as to how much to believe. - County and state bar associations can be good resources. They may refer you to some attorneys in your area who have the type of experience you need.
- If necessary, there's always the phone book. Note the contact information for several likely attorneys and don't feel you have to hire the first one you talk to.
In the initial consultation
This will be free of charge. (If it isn't, move on!) Bring your list of questions and don't be shy about consulting it. As the divorce attorney talks, notice whether he's also listening to what you say. Is he rushing you? Is he impatient with "dumb" questions? Does he make you feel like an idiot?
In this stressful period you'll want an attorney who treats you with respect. But you also want an honest one, not one who panders to get your business. As the divorce proceeds, he may have to give you unwelcome news, or insist on uncomfortable procedures, and it will be easier to get through the unpleasantness of it all if you can trust that your lawyer is doing the best and wisest thing.
The divorce attorney's office
- While you're there interviewing, glance around the office and note how it seems to be run. Is it calm and smooth? Are people rushing around in a tizzy? Is there a receptionist and if so, will you feel comfortable dealing with her/him? Do things seem to be well organized?
- Keep in mind that if this is a small law firm, the attorney may charge less, but he may also not return your calls as quickly, since he may be very busy and may not have another attorney there who can call you back. If it's a very large firm, they'll charge more, but will also have other attorneys who can step up to fill a gap if needed.
References
If this divorce attorney was not suggested by someone you know, ask for the names and phone numbers of a couple of his/her past clients. Of course, those clients would have to give permission to be so contacted, so the attorney might take a day or two to get them to you.
If the attorney is insulted by this request, move on. For such an emotional and personal thing as a divorce, you don't want to hire someone without references.
Questions to ask when interviewing an attorney
Are you board-certified in family law?
The boards are state bodies which require their certified attorneys to have a lot of trial experience and to pass a stiff examination. A lawyer who's board-certified in family law will have done about twice the continuing education of one who isn't board-certified.
What will the charge be?
If your situation is complicated, the exact answer to this question may have to wait until the lawyer knows enough to be able to estimate the probable cost. Ask whether you can pay in installments or whether it's all required up front.
Can I call you if I have a question or concern?
You'll want a divorce attorney who's willing to answer questions as things progress. Some lawyers might want to have you talk to one of their paralegals instead of directly to them. Some will have another attorney who'll be available to answer questions. Some may be slow to return phone calls but others may have a policy of returning them within 24 or 48 hours. Try to get a good sense of how easy the ongoing communication will be.
Will you send me copies of all the documents?
Most attorneys will copy the client on all documents and correspondence. Just make sure of this. It will keep you informed of how things are proceeding.
What things will I be charged for?
There'll be many expenses the attorney will pay as he goes, such as court filing fees, and you can ask what they are and how much they cost. Ask whether you'll be charged for the phone calls you make to him.
Do you expect this divorce will go to trial?
The attorney probably won't have an immediate and definite answer to this but he/she might see one on the horizon, even if you and your spouse don't want one. It depends on how complicated the situation is, in terms of real estate, business evaluations, custody, tax issues, etc.
Do you know the judge in the local court?
Ask this if there's any prospect of a trial. If the attorney knows how the judge runs the court, he'll be able to tailor his presentations for best possible results.
At Hull & Zimmerman we'll give you a free consultation and will answer all your questions to help you understand your situation from a legal perspective. We'll look at the facts, assess your situation, and explain legal terms. If you choose to retain us, we'll assign whatever resources are needed to bring your case to a successful conclusion. At all stages of the process, we'll be available to explain and answer your further questions.
Click here to read more about getting a divorce
Greater Denver metro area and Colorado Divorce Attorneys.
Hull and Zimmerman, P.C.
2921 W. 120th Ave., Ste 220
Westminster, Colorado 80234
Phone: 303-423-1770
Fax: 303-423-2102
Toll Free: 1-866-385-3505
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