Choosing a

FAMILY LAW ATTORNEY

What is a Family Law Attorney?

A family law attorney specializes in legal proceedings involving relationships between spouses, parents and children. This type of attorney practice handles divorce, child custody, spousal support, child support, surrogacy, adoption, and other relevant legal practice areas. When hiring an attorney for such personal matters, it’s important to find someone who has the necessary experience. You should also feel that you can confide in and trust this person.

Seek Personal Recommendations

Begin your attorney search by asking family members or friends who have faced a similar situation if they would recommend their family law attorneys. Although you shouldn’t choose solely based on their feedback, this will give you a short list you can use to start your search. From there, read online reviews and check with your state bar association to make sure a lawyer you are considering is in good standing.

Research Education and Experience

Because family law encompasses many different practice areas, you should check whether the individual has experience in your specific situation. For example, you shouldn’t hire an attorney who mostly works on child custody cases if you need a lawyer to draft a surrogacy agreement or arrange an open adoption. In some states, attorneys can specialize in family law. You may want to hire someone with this designation.

Arrange a Consultation

Many family lawyers offer free or low-cost consultation. This provides an opportunity to see whether you have a rapport with the attorney. During the consultation, you should explain your situation and find out how the lawyer has resolved similar client needs in the past. Ask about payment schedules, preferred communication methods, and whether you’ll work directly with the attorney or be referred to an assistant.

Researching Your Family Attorney

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Make Your
Final Decision

When you find a family law attorney who has the necessary experience and credentials, it’s OK to make the final hiring call based on gut instinct. After all, this is a person with whom you are entrusting some of the most important aspects of your life, so you should feel that they are willing to help you achieve the best possible resolution.

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