Choosing whether to divorce or when to divorce can be a difficult decision. When you’re taking this life-altering step you want to know you have someone strong and capable on your team. That’s why you should ask some careful questions before selecting your attorney.
What is your experience?
You want to know the person handling your case knows exactly what they are doing. Don’t be afraid to ask about an attorney’s education and experience. Make sure that the attorney you choose has substantial experience taking cases to trial, should that become necessary in your case.
What is your strategy for my case?
Make sure you and the attorney you select are on the same page when it comes to your case. It can save you a lot of money and time to try and settle as many issues as possible outside of court but if your case is complicated, you also want to know you have someone who will fight for you. As you describe the issues involved in your case, make sure the attorney is actively listening to what you want.
How long does it take for you to return calls or emails?
One of the biggest complaints that clients have about attorneys is the lack of communication. Thus, it is important to have an attorney who communicates often and who communicates well with clients. You want an attorney who has time for your case. Find out how your attorney prefers to communicate and how you will be notified of events that occur on your case.
Will anyone else be working on my case?
If you’re being careful selecting an attorney you want to be sure the attorney you spoke to or met with is the one who will be handling your case. It’s not uncommon for law firms to have multiple attorneys, paralegals and assistants working on a case. If you’re not comfortable with that, speak up and talk about it. Divorces are very personal and it’s important to trust your attorney.
What do you expect my divorce to cost?
This question may go hand in hand with the strategy the attorney thinks will work best for you. Some cases simply take less time and resources while others can take substantial time and effort. Your attorney won’t be able to predict the total cost but it’s best to have this discussion about fees and costs up front.
You’ll likely have a lot more than five questions when selecting an attorney. The most important thing is to pay attention to the way an attorney makes you feel when you talk to him or her. Choose someone you can trust, who listens intently. At Pangerl Law Firm, we pride ourselves on excellent client communication and work diligently to pursue our clients’ objectives. Reach out to us to discuss your divorce needs and we will be happy to assist you.
Pangerl Law Firm P.L.L.C. focuses on divorce, child custody, mother’s and father’s rights, child support, and all other areas of family law, as well as personal injury claims. Our office is located in Deer Valley and serves the greater Phoenix area, including the communities of Scottsdale, Peoria, Glendale, Cave Creek, Avondale, Goodyear, Surprise, Mesa, Tempe, Anthem, New River, North Phoenix and Phoenix. For more information, call: 602-942-6200.