Questions to Ask Your Divorce Attorney

At this point, most individuals going through a divorce or considering a divorce understand the importance of hiring a divorce attorney. What is less obvious or well known is how to choose the correct attorney for you. There are many qualified divorce lawyers in Northern New Jersey, but finding the best fit can mean the difference between a positive and fruitful experience and feeling like pulling teeth. With that in mind, a great place to start this process is by coming up with a list of questions to ask your potential independent legal counsel.

Here are some questions commonly asked during initial consultations, leading into your divorce, and even after the divorce process is complete.

Questions to Ask a NJ Divorce Lawyer During Initial Consultation

Do you practice divorce law exclusively? Many attorneys claim to be divorce attorneys…but also criminal attorneys, personal injury attorneys, and so on. While this is certainly possible, it may be advantageous to seek an attorney who has focused experience with the issues of divorce such as equitable distribution, alimony, child support, child custody, and more.

Who will be handling my case? Some larger firms may attempt to pass your case along to a junior attorney after meeting with the principal. It is important that you understand with whom you will be working so that you can find a great fit there as well.

What are your fees? While the legal fees may not be the most important thing about choosing a divorce lawyer, it is certainly a major factor. Do not secure independent legal counsel without at least understanding how you will be charged.

Other Questions to Discuss with New Jersey Family Law Attorneys

There is no shortage of complicating factors which may impact your individual case. Beyond the blanket questions which apply to all cases, there are a litany of questions you may want to ask based on your unique needs and concerns.

• Do you offer alternative conflict resolution methods such as mediation, arbitration, and collaborative divorce?
• What is your policy on responding to correspondences like phone calls and emails? After hours?
• Will you support me handling my divorce outside of court through direct negotiation?
• Can you estimate the total timeline of my divorce?
• Are there any ways to keep the costs and/or timeline of my divorce low?
• Do we need to hire an expert witness for my case? What will that cost?
• How can I prepare financially for divorce?
• How many years have you been practicing divorce law?
• Are you familiar with NJ judges and other legal professionals?
• What is your relevant experience with cases like my own?
• Should I file for fault divorce or no-fault divorce?

Disclaimer: This website and information presented are for the purposes of legal marketing and general education. No part of this site should be construed as legal advice. Please consult with an attorney regarding your specific situation. © 2019 Townsend, Tomaio & Newmark, L.L.C.