Is a website all you need to check before you hire a divorce attorney? Well, most veteran lawyers do have an impressive site, but that is not enough proof of their work quality, experience with sensitive cases, and work with unique divorce situations. Whether it is a collaboration or a mediation job, you need to look beyond the website and online profile to find the right attorney to represent you especially if you’re thinking about collaborative divorce.
To do so, you need to ask yourself a few questions.
5 Questions You Should Ask if You’re Thinking About Collaborative Divorce
1. Are you the ideal candidate for collaborative divorce?
A collaborative divorce depends on both the parties involved. Therefore, even though you might have the best intentions, your divorce case may end up in court. In case both of you are ready for collaboration or mediation, speak with prospective attorneys. Always ask as many questions as you need to. Ensure that they have no bias towards the hiring party or the opposition.
2. Is the attorney up for signing a Collaborative Divorce Agreement?
According to the Fort Worth divorce lawyers, the classic definition of a collaborative divorce is one where lawyers of both parties decide not to file court motions. Always choose someone who agrees to sign the Collaborative Divorce Agreement. This situation comes with a catch – under any circumstance, if the parties become hostile and decide to move to court, they will have to find new attorneys to represent them.
3. Does your lawyer have experience in the area?
It is not enough for the lawyer to be collaborative or unbiased. Your lawyer needs to have some working experience in the field of mutual divorce. They might have years or even decades of litigation experience, but that cannot substitute the hands-on experience for collaborative divorce.
4. Do they have experience working on a divorce that involves children?
Most divorces that do not involve raw emotions have higher chances of being mutual. However, when there are children involved in the process, even collaborative processes can become complicated. It is imperative not to discuss unpleasant matters, including loss of assets or incurring expenses, in front of them.
However, it is vital to keep them updated on the mutual nature of the process. You should inform your children about your emotions towards them and the decisions you will be making about custody. Be sure not to involve them in any legal debate you might engage in.
5. Finally, what do your instincts say?
It is never enough to interview hundreds of lawyers when your family and children are involved in the process. To some extent, you should rely on your instincts. Some attorneys are just better at handling even the most complex situations and bringing them down to collaboration.
You should spend enough time with your new attorney. Ensure that you are comfortable while discussing the legal nature, monetary concerns, and emotions of the process. You should be comfortable with them as a lawyer and as a person. You should not feel judged or demeaned at any point during the discussions.
C Brown is an editor of a leading online magazine. He used to help small businesses with their social media and law advice-related activities.
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