How to Find an Attorney

Finding the right attorney for your divorce is an important step in navigating the complexities of legal proceedings with confidence and peace of mind. Once you decide you want to hire an attorney or if you just want to meet with someone to learn more, the next step is to reach out and set up an initial consultation.  Before hiring an attorney, you should always meet with them first to see if it is a good fit, ask your questions and learn about the specific attorney’s process. You may decide to meet with more than one attorney to find the best for your situation. Many attorneys offer a free consultation for 30-60 minutes or they may charge for that preliminary interview. You often won’t receive legal advice or dig into the substantive matters in that first meeting.  Instead, think if it as a preliminary opportunity to get to know each other and consider how well you could work together.  You should find out the cost ahead of the meeting and make sure you know the parameters of the consult.

Here are specific steps to help you in your search for an attorney:

1. Identify Your  Needs: Begin by identifying the specific aspects of family law that pertain to your situation. Whether it's divorce, child custody, adoption, or other     family-related matters, clarifying your needs will guide you in finding an attorney with the relevant expertise.
2. Seek Recommendations: Reach out to trusted friends, family members, or colleagues who have experience with family law matters. Personal recommendations can provide valuable insights into the reputation and effectiveness of attorneys in your area. You can often seek out recommendations through your online     neighborhood groups or your employer assistance programs.
3. Research Online: Utilize online resources to research attorneys specializing in family law in your jurisdiction. Websites such as legal directories, attorney review platforms, and bar association websites can offer information about attorneys' qualifications, experience, and client reviews. Attorneys often provide a lot of information on their websites – you can learn a lot about them before even reaching out. See if they have social media and if you think you could connect with them.
4. Consultations: Schedule consultations with multiple attorneys to discuss your case and assess     their suitability. During these meetings, ask about their experience handling similar cases, their approach to legal representation, and their communication style. Pay attention to how comfortable you feel discussing     your situation and whether you have confidence in their abilities to represent you effectively. See our list of questions to ask when interviewing an attorney.
5. Consider Compatibility: Choose an attorney with whom you feel comfortable and confident in establishing a productive working relationship. Effective communication and trust are essential in navigating sensitive family law matters. So be sure that you feel heard and understood by your chosen attorney. Think     about your attorney as a friend and guide through an emotional and challenging process. You may cry in front of them.  They may see you at your worst. They may need to challenge you at times and push you to make hard decisions. You want to feel comfortable to be yourself with them and also comfortable asking questions to make sure you fully understand everything in the process.
6. Evaluate Costs: Inquire about the attorney's fee structure and billing practices during the consultation. While cost shouldn't be the sole determining factor, it's     important to have a clear understanding of the financial aspects of legal representation. You should know what, if anything, is needed up front as a retainer and then how payment will work throughout the process.
7. Review Credentials: Verify the attorney's credentials, including their education, licensure, and any disciplinary history. You can typically find this information on state bar association websites or through online legal directories.

By following these steps and conducting thorough research, you can find an attorney who is not only skilled and experienced in family law but also aligned with your needs and goals. With the right attorney by your side, you can navigate your family law matter with confidence and clarity, knowing that your interests are being represented effectively.