Choosing a custody attorney is a huge step. If you and your spouse are getting divorced and you want to make sure you get custody of your children, hiring a custody lawyer is of paramount importance. Here’s how to make sure you get the best one to handle your case:
Experience
Look for someone who specializes in family law. Extensive experience in handling custody cases is a plus, along with long years of practice. Ask about their success rate in settling cases in court too. Do they have a skill set or expertise they could bring to the case to make a difference in the outcome? Look out for these qualities.
Logistics
Find out if the lawyer will handle your case or if someone else will do. Some lawyers have teams of researchers to help them. Some do the research on their own. Ask so you’ll know if the lawyer can handle your case or not. If the lawyer has too many cases on his hands, then your case could slip through the cracks. That could also mean ending up with a lawyer who might be too busy to give your case the time and attention necessary.
Cost
Is there an hourly rate in addition to the retainer? Is there an hourly rate if you call your lawyer’s staff? Are there any hidden charges and costs you have to pay off? Talk to your custody lawyer and sort these things out, first thing. This will help you assess your financial state and to find out if you have enough to cover the costs, The Spruce says. Knowing how much you’ll need to spend on attorney and legal fees should make it easier for you to choose the appropriate legal counsel.
Communication
Does your lawyer answer your calls, reply promptly and send you regular updates? If your lawyer is quick to clarify questions, you’ve made an excellent choice.
