divorce attorney san diego : Choose An Attorney Wisely

2007-03-08 10:33:40

( Legal )



Divorce is always a difficult emotional process. Having the right divorce lawyer, whether a divorce attorney san diego or elsewhere, makes a big difference. Finding a good divorce attorney san diego is the same as finding a good plumber or auto mechanic - a warm referral is the best.

When looking for a divorce attorney san diego, why not ask your closest friends or consult with good business or social acquaintances. You can even check professional societies. A Yellow Pages cold call really should be the last resort.

Fees
Discuss these upfront with the divorce lawyer. You need to know:
• the hourly rate
• the billing of partitions of hours
• approximate total cost (taking into consideration the issues that have been discussed).

Interview the divorce lawyer. If he is threatened by your preparation and knowledge, be careful. He should support the fact that you take an active role. It is critical to have a relationship based on competence and trust.

Choose a divorce lawyer who specializes in family law and can tell you what you need to know in plain English. Don’t settle for the first divorce lawyer you meet – interview at least three face-to-face.

What questions should you ask?
1. What portion of the practice is dedicated to divorces?
2. How many divorces did they handle in the last year?
3. Do they consider themselves to be:
• a mediator
• an arbitrator
• a litigator
• a negotiator?
4. What divorce trial experience do they have?
5. Will they litigate in court if the case isn’t settled?
6. Will they handle the case themselves or will an associate or assistant?
7. What happens if they go on vacation or get sick?
8. How will they bill?
9. What is the charge for extra expenses?
10. What can they do to keep costs low?

It’s important to get a written fee agreement. Make sure you read the entire agreement and understand it fully, to avoid misunderstandings.

A retainer?
A lot of divorce lawyers want a retainer. This means that they want part or even all of the fees “upfront” as an insurance that they will be paid. In this case, check that the retainer is refundable if the work isn’t done or if you fire the divorce lawyer.

Avoid problems by taking control of your divorce process – considering all your options well ahead.


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