How to Choose the Right Family Lawyer for You

The benefits you can enjoy from hiring a family lawyer to handle your legal matter are contingent upon selecting the right lawyer to represent you. You need an attorney with years of experience and legal expertise in your particular legal matter, as well as one who understands your needs. Make the best choice for you by taking the following steps.

Understand Your Needs

You must understand the specific type of family law matter you are dealing with. Family law is divided into several categories, including divorce, legal separation, child custody, child support, alimony, adoption, paternity, prenuptial and postnuptial agreements, and estate planning. Search for an attorney who specializes in your specific type of case to ensure he or she fully understands the associated laws and legal processes.

Consider the Level of Conflict

If you are dealing with a family matter that is surrounded by high conflict, contentiousness or disagreement, look for a lawyer who is specifically skilled in litigation. A contested family law case is more likely to end up in court and need to be decided by a judge. 

In a contentious situation, you need a skilled litigator with years of trial experience to adequately protect your rights. If your family law case is amicable, on the other hand, a lawyer with experience in collaborative law or alternative dispute resolution may be a better fit.

Start Your Search

You can find a lawyer by asking your friends or family for referrals and recommendations. You can also rely on trusted online directories, such as the California State Bar Association’s online certified specialist directory, Avvo or Martindale-Hubbell to find licensed family lawyers near you. Signs of a stand-out attorney include years in practice, familiarity with local family courts, good law firm reviews and positive client testimonials.

Check for Qualifications and Credentials

The best attorney to take your case is one with proven credentials. Search for a family lawyer with significant experience in areas that are relevant to your case, as well as one with a positive professional standing and reputation – both in the community and the legal industry. A Certified Family Law Specialist will have superior knowledge and experience in family law as someone who is certified by the State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization.

Ask About Services and Fees

To select the right attorney, ask questions that give you a deeper understanding of how the law firm operates. You should feel comfortable with the style and amount of communication offered by your lawyer, for example, as well as accessibility and availability. 

Ask about the attorney’s approach to your specific case and what strategies he or she may use to achieve your goals. Assess their approach and compare it to your own wishes. You should feel that the attorney listens, understands your needs and cares about you. Finally, ask about the attorney’s fees so that there are no surprises in terms of how much your case will cost.

Schedule a Free Consultation

You should not hire an attorney until you have spoken with him or her in person, or at least over the phone. Schedule a free consultation with a prospective family lawyer in California for the opportunity to discuss your specific needs and receive personalized legal advice. During the consultation, you can ask questions and get to know the lawyer to confirm whether he or she is the right fit for you.