What To Look For In A Divorce Lawyer
Divorce is a time when even the best among us need assistance. The complexity of the law means that you will require a good lawyer, but we must also remember that an lawyer has specific jobs to perform, and you must find a lawyer you feel comfortable with. If you are lawyer shopping, it is imperative that you understand what type of personality will give you the type of service you want and deserve.
Respect and Realism
An ideal divorce lawyer respects her clients. This means, as one might expect, that your lawyer will treat you with respect not only when you are a prospective client, but also once she has your business. This also means that you are not the only one she will treat with respect – an lawyer who is rude to support staff or court officials is not one you want on your side. The reputation of your lawyer in the Court System will reflect on you and your case.
Respect also extends to using your time wisely, and making you feel like your business is valuable, rather than just another file. Messages should be returned promptly, if not by your lawyer, then by someone working closely with her. You should receive regular communications, including copies of emails, correspondence and pleadings. No ‘bait and switch’ tactics are employed – you should meet and know the people in the office who will be doing the bulk of the work on your case. You are entitled to know if an associate lawyer or a paralegal will assist the lawyer you hired. In many cases, this is a benefit to you both in cost savings and in having multiple people familiar with your situation, in the event your primary lawyer is unavailable when you need her; but this should be explained to you up front.
Honesty Is The Best Policy
Above all else, it is imperative to find an lawyer who will be honest with you at all times. Even so-called ‘white lies’ do matter. The role of a lawyer is to provide legal advice to the best of their ability, and to put your interests first. However, this also means that an honest lawyer will tell you if what you are asking for is realistic.
Keep in mind your lawyer’s specific role in your legal proceeding. Lawyers are not psychiatrists or counselors; their job is to obtain the best divorce settlement possible for you and your children. A good lawyer may tell you that you will save time and money by engaging a therapist and an lawyer, instead of one or the other.
A Good Divorce Lawyer Will Help You
Above all, a competent Florida divorce lawyer will work hard to keep her clients informed. The Orlando family lawyers at the firm of Goodblatt · Leo put our clients first, and will do our best to ensure your divorce is handled quickly and appropriately in all respects. We work as a Team to make sure that you always have a legal professional you know, and who knows your case, available to help you. Contact us today at 407-228-7007 to set up an appointment.