Divorce can be a messy process and it can be emotionally taxing as well. When choosing a divorce lawyer, it is important to choose a professional that has the skill and the empathy to handle these proceedings ensuring your rights are protected.
Make sure to check
Whether the attorney you are considering is specialising in family law and takes on divorce cases. Divorce lawyers Melbourne have a good grasp of the complexities of divorce proceedings and this includes child custody issues, equitable division of assets, spousal support etc. By choosing a lawyer that specialises in this, you will have the assurance that they have the required knowledge to navigate the complexities of divorce law in your country.
Consider their experience and track record when considering their competence. An experienced divorce lawyer will have a strong track record and have come across a variety of cases so that they have worked with different strategies and solutions. You can check whether they have handled similar cases to yours before and whether they have been successful in these instances. You can check testimonials from previous clients. You need to check whether their track record for achieving positive outcomes for their clients is solid so that they can guide you truly through the divorce proceedings.
Communication is an important skill to have as a divorce lawyer
There has to be a good working relationship between you and the divorce lawyer. This compatibility is something you can assess at the initial consultation. Check whether they listen to you carefully and takes the time to explain the complexities of divorce law and how this applies to your case. They need to establish a rapport with you and have an understanding of what you are going through so that your stress can be alleviated. While they are not required to be your therapist, they should have the emotional capacity to consider your situation and support you in this difficult time. There can be tight deadlines for divorce proceedings and there is a lot of paperwork that has to be dealt with quickly.
You need to consider
The availability of the divorce lawyer and responsiveness when making a choice. It is important that you choose a divorce lawyer who is accessible and it responsive to your queries so that you will be able to stay informed during the process. You can ask them about how they keep the client informed and what lines of communication are maintained. This is a collaborative relationship. How conflict resolution is approached will be different when it comes to different divorce cases.
Some divorce lawyers will take a more collaborative approach that is amicable so that negotiation or mediation is prioritised when reaching a settlement. Some will have a litigious style where they are prepared to advocate for your interests in court if required. You need to think about what your preferences are and what the dynamics of your situation are when choosing a lawyer. Make sure to ask about the fees and billing structure so that you understand the costs associated with your case.