Getting a divorce is no one’s idea of a good time. If you find yourself in the unenviable situation of facing the dissolution of your marriage you will likely be rife with concern and uncertainty about the process and your future. A well-selected divorce attorney can help guide you through the process and relieve some of the stress associated with the life-changing event. Determine whether a potential lawyer is right for you by posing certain questions to her.
How Much Divorce Case Experience Do You Have?
While you might not elect to select the most-experienced lawyer, it is good to know how experienced the lawyer you do select is within the divorce field. Don’t allow the lawyer’s experience to weigh too heavily in your decision making, as an inexperienced lawyer could be just as good, if not better, than a more-experienced option, but do take it into consideration.
How Much Do You Think This Divorce Will Cost?
Many women find themselves strapped for cash while dealing with divorce. Ask this question upfront so that you can budget appropriately, and plan according to the figure you are given.
How Long Should This Process Take?
Individuals going through a divorce often want to get the process taken care of as quickly as possible; however, the complicated litigation can take time. By finding out from your potential lawyer how long the process will likely take, you can prepare yourself emotionally for the event.
How Much Should I Communicate With My Spouse?
Depending upon the status of your relationship, you may be communicating with your spouse regularly, or you may have cut off conversation all together. When starting your divorce case, get your lawyer’s prospective on communication to ensure that you follow the suggested course of action.
Do You Recommend Mediation?
Mediation is one means by which a divorce can be settled. Using this method, parting spouses sit and discuss the equitable division of their assets. Some lawyers promote the use of mediation while others are more prone to settle cases in court. If your divorce is particularly amicable, you may want to select a lawyer that recommends mediation.
How Can I Prepare Myself Financially?
Getting divorced is more than just a change of relationship status. It is also a serious financial modification. Your lawyer can advise you on what things you should expect to be different financially and what steps you may need to take to reduce the financial hardship that you suffer as a result of the ending of your marriage.
What Should I Be Doing Now?
When beginning your divorce proceedings, it can seem difficult to determine what needs to be done next. Instead of worrying that you are not doing what you should be doing, ask your divorce attorney what you should be doing at that stage of the process. By soliciting and following his advice, you can ensure that you do what needs to be done.
Photo Credit
- man and woman divorced image by Ivonne Wierink from Fotolia.com
